28 Aug 2019 | 04:45 PM UTC
Gambia: State funeral for former President Jawara August 29
State funeral for former President Jawara to be held in Banjul on August 29; large crowds and transportation disruptions expected
Event
A state funeral will be held for former President Dawda Jawara on Thursday, August 29, in Banjul. The former leader died on Tuesday, August 27, at his residence in Fajara. Large crowds are expected to attend the memorial services which will begin at 16:00 (local time) at the National Assembly building.
Significant disruptions, including road closures, heightened security measures, and crowded conditions, are anticipated in Banjul during the memorial events.
Context
Under Jawara, Gambia gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1965. He served as Prime Minister until 1970, then as the first president from 1970 to 1994.
Advice
Individuals in Banjul are advised to respect local customs, refrain from discussing political topics in public or on social media, anticipate government and business disruptions, heightened security measures, and transportation disruptions near funeral events, and avoid public gatherings as a precaution.
