Momodou Lamin Shyngle Nyassi, popularly known as Nyasi, was one of the pioneering figures of The Gambia’s opposition United Democratic Party (UDP). A founding member, long-serving Youth Wing President, and later National Organizing and Propaganda Secretary, Nyasi dedicated much of his life to the struggle for democracy, justice, and political freedom in The Gambia.
Following the military government’s ban on political parties, Nyasi played a key role in establishing and organizing the UDP in Brikama on August 23, 1996. From the party’s earliest days, he became a formidable grassroots mobilizer, helping build the UDP’s presence across the country and rallying Gambians against authoritarian rule.
A fearless and outspoken critic of former President Yahya Jammeh’s regime, Nyasi endured repeated arrests, harassment, intimidation, and detention because of his political activism. He was subjected to severe physical abuse during his detention, which reportedly left him with a permanently impaired leg. His determination, however, remained unshaken.
Nyasi’s political convictions extended beyond party politics. Coming from the Foni region and being a Jola himself, he consistently rejected attempts to portray the UDP as a party belonging to any particular ethnic group. He championed a united and inclusive Gambia and strongly resisted efforts by the regime to exploit ethnic divisions for political gain.
For years, Nyasi also faced restrictions that prevented him from obtaining a passport to seek medical treatment abroad. Yet even in the face of immense personal hardship, he remained committed to the democratic cause and to the principles upon which the UDP was founded.
Nyasi passed away in New York City on October 7, 2013, while on a diaspora engagement tour. His death was deeply mourned by the UDP and by Gambians who knew him as one of the courageous faces of the country’s democratic resistance.
His contribution to the UDP and to The Gambia’s struggle for democracy cannot be measured simply by the offices he held. His greatest legacy was his courage: the willingness to stand up, speak out, organize, and endure hardship when doing so came at an enormous personal cost.
Mr. Nyasi, thank you for your tremendous service to our country and to the United Democratic Party. Your courage, sacrifice, dedication, and unwavering commitment to democracy remain an enduring part of the UDP’s history and legacy.
As we celebrate 30 years of the United Democratic Party, we remember and celebrate you and the many years you devoted to the party and the Gambian people.
Happy 30th Anniversary, Mr. Nyasi.
May your legacy continue to inspire generations of Gambians who believe in democracy, justice, freedom, and a better Gambia.
UDP Media & Communications Team