The Gambian Diaspora Political Engagement During Yahya JammehRule and the 2016 Democratic Transition (1994-2016)
Keywords:
Gambian diaspora, Yahya Jammeh, authoritarianism, democratic transition, 2016 electoral crisis, transnationalism, diaspora politics, political activism, advocacy, media activism, lobbying, financial support, international mobilization, opposition coalition, diaspora voting rights, democratic consolidation, political institutions, and state–diaspora relations.Abstract
The article examines on the ways in which Gambians living abroad contributed to political change during Yahya Jammeh’s time as an authoritarian leader (1994-2016). The transitional democratic process of 2016 will be specifically examined. Drawing upon a body of theoretical literature focused on transnationalism, social transformation and the political activities of diasporas, this study demonstrates how Gambians residing outside of Gambia were able to act politically by engaging in advocacy, media activism, providing financial support for political activity, lobbying, and organizing international network mobilization.
Excluded from formal political participation at home, the diaspora used transnational spaces to challenge authoritarianism, support the opposition coalition, and influence international responses during the 2016 electoral crisis.
The article assesses the institutionalized framework for diaspora involvement created after Jammeh’s departure; the authors highlight what has been accomplished and areas where there is still much to be done (such as denying the right to vote for those who live abroad and the weakness of state institutions). The article concludes that although the Gambian Diaspora was an important factor in the transition from authoritarianism to democracy; however, to achieve long term democratic consolidation requires political institutions that are inclusive and strong partnerships between the State/Diaspora, as opposed to relying solely on diaspora activism.
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