Abstract
A coup d'etat in The Gambia abruptly ended the reign of the longest serving democratic government and head of state in Africa. This ministate of one million was renowned internationally for its tranquility at a time when the rest of the continent was mired in political instability. The coup resulted from perceived civilian government weakness, widespread feelings of relative deprivation among junior Gambian officers, and their resentment against senior Nigerian officers who controlled the army. Also, turbulence in the West Africa subregion and poor relations between the deposed Gambia and Senegal governments emboldened the junior officers to intervene. While the new regime enjoys considerable popular support, domestic and international pressures increase for a return to civilian rule. With elections promised in July 1996, some external aid has been restored, which could avert domestic financial collapse and repression.
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