Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – In a message marking the Islamic New Year, former Gambian President Yahya Jammeh extended greetings to his supporters while seeking forgiveness and calling for national unity. Addressing his followers from his current residence in Equatorial Guinea, Jammeh’s tone was notably reflective and conciliatory.

“I am seeking your forgiveness; let us forgive each other. I pray for Allah to clean our hearts and fill them with good intentions for a better nation. Any bad intentions within us, may Allah remove them, for we are all children of the same mothers and fathers,” Jammeh stated in a calm voice.

Jammeh, who ruled The Gambia for 22 years before being ousted in 2017, emphasized the importance of unity and divine guidance. “The Gambia is bigger than any individual. It is the country that God provided for us,” he said, urging those harboring anger to forgive and reconcile in the spirit of Islamic teachings, reminding them that life is transient.

Known for his authoritarian rule, Jammeh’s tenure was marred by allegations of human rights abuses, including forced disappearances, torture, and extrajudicial killings. Since his departure, The Gambia has been on a path to democratic transition, with a Truth, Reconciliation, and Reparations Commission (TRRC) established to investigate the abuses during his regime.

In his message, Jammeh prayed for divine protection and prosperity for the nation. “I want The Gambia to develop as I envisioned before, and I still hold that same intention for Gambians and Africa at large,” he affirmed. He expressed his hopes for an end to the country’s suffering and for the provision of its needs by God.

Jammeh also extended his greetings to his supporters, the council of elders, and the National Assembly members. Concluding his speech, he prayed for a successful farming season for all Gambians.

Jammeh’s call for forgiveness and unity comes at a time when The Gambia continues to grapple with the legacy of his rule. His message may resonate with his supporters but will likely be viewed with skepticism by many who suffered under his regime and are seeking justice and reconciliation through the TRRC process.