Revolution Day in Gambia is a significant national holiday celebrated on the 22nd of July each year. This special day marks the 1994 coup that saw the overthrowing of Dawda Jawara's government, who had been in power since Gambia's independence in 1965. Lieutenant Yahya Jammeh led the nonviolent coup, citing corruption and poor governance as reasons for the revolution.
On this day, Gambians reflect on the changes and developments that transpired since the revolution. There are various activities conducted to commemorate Revolution Day, ranging from large parades and military demonstrations to cultural performances and rallies. It serves as an opportunity for the Gambian people to show their patriotic spirit, often with speeches delivered by government officials and public figures reflecting on the nation's evolution and future plans.
However, Revolution Day is also a day of controversy and mixed emotions. While it signals the beginning of what was initially perceived as a new era for Gambian politics, Yahya Jammeh's regime turned out to be marked by human rights abuses and allegations of corruption. Consequently, while some Gambians consider Revolution Day a time of celebration, others view it as a reminder of a difficult period in the country's history.