By Fatou Sillah
The United Democratic Party (UDP) on Monday commemorated Solo Sandeng Day at the Westfield Youth Monument, paying tribute to the courage, patriotism, and ultimate sacrifice of Solo Sandeng—a former party member who became a symbol of resistance and democratic struggle in The Gambia.
Solo Sandeng was arrested, tortured, and allegedly killed in April 2016 after leading a peaceful protest calling for electoral reforms under the former regime of Yahya Jammeh. The annual commemoration serves to honor his memory and renew calls for justice and accountability.
Speaking at the ceremony, UDP Party Leader and Secretary General Ousainou Darboe described Sandeng as a “true patriot who stood firm in the face of tyranny.”
“Today, as we commemorate Solo Sandeng Day, we honour the life, courage, and ultimate sacrifice of a true patriot who stood firm in the face of tyranny. On this day in 2016, Solo Sandeng was brutally murdered by the Jammeh regime for daring to demand electoral reform and justice for the Gambian people. His arrest during the peaceful protest at Westfield, and his subsequent torture and killing, remain a stark reminder of the brutality of dictatorship and the enduring need for accountability,” He Said.
He emphasized that Sandeng’s dedication to democratic principles and human rights continues to inspire the party and the broader Gambian society.
“Solo Sandeng’s unwavering commitment to democracy and human rights continues to inspire us all. His sacrifice, alongside those of many other Gambians who suffered under Yahya Jammeh’s oppressive regime, must never be forgotten. The UDP remains steadfast in honouring his legacy by advocating for justice, democracy, and the rule of law in The Gambia,” He said
Darboe also used the occasion to call on the government to expedite the full implementation of the Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC) recommendations, particularly those relating to justice and reparations for victims of human rights violations under the former regime.
“The victims of Jammeh’s regime, including the families of Solo Sandeng, Ebrima Solo Krummah, and countless others, deserve justice, reparations, and closure. Delaying these measures only prolongs their pain and undermines our national healing,” He Said.
Darboe further reaffirmed the United Democratic Party’s unwavering solidarity with all victims of the Jammeh regime, emphasizing the party’s continued commitment to ensuring that their suffering is both acknowledged and addressed.
He called on the government to take urgent action by:
- Fast-tracking reparations for victims and their families as recommended by the Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC);
- Prosecuting all perpetrators identified in the TRRC report to ensure justice and accountability;
- Establishing national memorials and launching educational programs to preserve the legacy of those who fought and died for democracy in The Gambia.
“And to the families of Solo Sandeng and all victims of dictatorship: Your pain is our pain. Your fight for justice is our fight.” Darboe declared. “The UDP will never waver in demanding accountability and upholding the principles for which Solo and so many others gave their lives.”
He concluded by urging Gambians to honor Solo Sandeng’s legacy through a continued commitment to building a nation rooted in democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.