Human rights attorney Essa Mbye Faal: The Gambia's New Hope in the 2026 Presidential Race

The Gambia. The smallest country in Africa is a popular holiday destination for Europeans, has great bathing weather all year round and a very beautiful river landscape of the eponymous Gambia River.... There are crocodiles, hippos, monkeys and more than 500 species of fish and birds of all colours and sizes. Many Europeans from all countries also travel to The Gambia time and again to enjoy the sun and the sea.

The current political situation is hardly ever considered. If you take a closer look at the situation in the country, you can see the potential for change, especially in conversations with Africans. They want a change. Fast. Not in the future. Asap!

Internationally renowned, successful lawyer Essa Mbye Faal wants sustainable and effective change for The Gambia

Mr Faal is a Gambian lawyer and internationally recognised jurist who has made a name for himself primarily through his work in international criminal proceedings and human rights matters. He was born in The Gambia and has held prominent positions both nationally and internationally throughout his career.

Essa Mbye Faal now gives his first exclusive interview about his vision for the country

Interviewer Oliver Gaebe:

Good afternoon, Mr Faal. Thank you for taking the time to talk to us. You have announced your candidacy for the presidency of The Gambia in 2026. What motivated you to run for the highest office in the country?

Essa Mbye Faal:

Good afternoon Oliver and thank you for the invitation. My decision to run for president is based on my deep desire to serve my country and lead The Gambia to a better future. In my career as a lawyer so far, I have always advocated for justice, human rights and the promotion of the rule of law. The Gambia faces many challenges - economic, social and political - and I firmly believe that I can bring about positive change through my experience and vision.

You are internationally recognised and respected as a human rights lawyer, particularly through your work with the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC). How has this experience shaped your political vision?

Essa Mbye Faal:

Working at the TRRC was one of the most formative experiences of my life. It has shown me the deep wounds that our country still needs to heal and has taught me the importance of reconciliation, justice and transparency in building a stable society. My political vision is based on these principles. I want to create a government that serves the people, hears their voices and restores the trust that many Gambians have lost in their leaders.

Oliver Gaebe:

What do you think are the biggest challenges facing The Gambia at the moment and how do you plan to tackle them?

Essa Mbye Faal:

The Gambia faces a number of challenges. Economically, we are struggling with high unemployment, especially among young people, and a lack of infrastructure and investment. Politically, we are still struggling to put the past completely behind us and create a stable, democratic basis. In addition, corruption and poor governance remain major problems. I plan to tackle these challenges through comprehensive reforms that will stimulate the economy, create jobs and strengthen the rule of law. Education and health will also be priorities for my government.

Oliver Gaebe:

Mr Faal, you mentioned corruption as one of the major challenges. How do you intend to fight it in The Gambia?

Essa Mbye Faal:

Corruption is a cancer that destroys people's trust in their government. To fight it, I will create strong, independent institutions that can operate free from political influence. It is also important to promote transparency in all government processes and take strong action against those guilty of corruption. I believe that a well-informed public is the best defence against corruption, so I will also advocate for more citizen participation and transparency

Oliver Gaebe:

What makes you confident that you can win the trust of the Gambian people?

Essa Mbye Faal:

I am confident because I believe that people are calling for a new kind of leadership - one that is honest, transparent and committed. I have dedicated my life to serving the country and I believe that my experience and integrity will enable me to gain the trust of the people. I listen to what the people say and I am ready to work with them to make The Gambia a better place for all?

Oliver Gaebe:

What is your vision for The Gambia in 2030, should your presidency be successful?

Essa Mbye Faal:

My vision for The Gambia in 2030 is of a prosperous, stable and united country where every citizen has the opportunity to realise their full potential. I see a Gambia that is proud of its diversity, has a strong economy and where justice and the rule of law are paramount. A country that is a role model for others in the region and beyond. We will ensure proper waste separation and rid the country of rubbish. Many thousands of jobs will be created in the waste management sector. Waste is not rubbish, it is raw material and recyclable material. This will also pave the way for more tourism - and many more jobs will be created.

Oliver Gaebe:

Thank you very much, Mr Faal, for your frank words and your time. We wish you every success in your endeavours.pave the way for tourism - and many more jobs will be created.

Essa Mbye Faal:

Thank you very much, I appreciate the opportunity to share my vision with you and your readers.

Who has spoken to the internationally renowned lawyer Mr Faal?

BellaCoola Filmproduction UG
Eythstr. 10
D-51103 Cologne
Germany

Oliver Gaebe & Co author Bint Faal
E-Mail: bellacoola-liefert (@) die-besten-bilder.de
Fon: +491796004547