Revolution Day in Gambia

The event behind July 22

On July 22, 1994, army officers led by Lieutenant Yahya Jammeh seized power and removed the democratically elected government of President Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara. The Armed Forces Provisional Ruling Council (AFPRC) took control, and Jammeh became its chairman and head of state.[2][3]

The change ended a period in which Jawara’s People’s Progressive Party had dominated Gambian politics for nearly 30 years. The government’s election history describes The Gambia before the coup as one of Africa’s older multiparty democracies and records a transition plan that eventually led to elections and civilian rule.[2]

A name with political history

The name Revolution Day frames the anniversary around the 1994 change of power. Official historical accounts describe the event as a military coup that deposed an elected government. That difference in framing matters: the date marks a contested political turning point, rather than an independence anniversary or a religious observance.[2][3]

The government’s White Paper on the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission places the coup at the beginning of Jammeh’s 22 years in power and records serious human-rights violations under his regime. That record is part of the historical context for understanding why the anniversary can carry different meanings for Gambians.[3]

Holiday status and practical planning

The Government of The Gambia’s published list of holidays includes several fixed and religious dates but does not list Revolution Day.[1]

Residents and visitors should check directly with relevant institutions and service providers before making plans.

Commemorations and everyday observance

The coup and the country’s political transition are documented, but present-day public ceremonies or household customs for Revolution Day are not described. Check local notices for information about events.[1][2][3]