A symbolic representation of the struggles and hopes within the African continent.

Unrest in Africa: Key Conflicts, Political Prisoners, and the Fight for Stability

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Kai Mendoza in Global Affairs June 2025 • 3 min read.

"A deep dive into the recent upheavals across Africa, from high-profile prisoner releases to escalating ethnic clashes and the growing threat of ISIS."


August 2015 witnessed a series of critical events across Africa, highlighting ongoing struggles for political stability, human rights, and security. From controversial prisoner releases in The Gambia to escalating ethnic violence in Kenya and the growing presence of ISIS in Libya, the continent faced numerous challenges. This article delves into these key developments, providing a comprehensive overview of the issues at stake.

Understanding these events is crucial for anyone interested in global affairs, human rights, or the future of African nations. By examining the specific cases of political prisoners, ethnic clashes, and the rise of extremist groups, we gain insights into the complex dynamics shaping the continent.

This analysis aims to shed light on the underlying factors driving these events and their potential long-term consequences. The information is sourced from Africa Research Bulletin.

Political Prisoners and Justice in The Gambia

A symbolic representation of the struggles and hopes within the African continent.

In The Gambia, President Yahya Jammeh's government initiated a series of clemency measures, releasing over 200 prisoners in July 2015. This included several high-profile individuals, such as former chief justice Joseph Wowo and high-ranking military officers. Wowo had been jailed for two years on charges ranging from fraud to interfering with witnesses. Other notable releases included naval commander Mamut Sarr, who civil rights activists claimed was held for six years, and army officers Mam Matarr Secka and Kuluteh Manneh, convicted on drug offenses.

However, not all prisoners benefited from this clemency. Journalist Alagie Ceesay, manager of Teranga FM radio station, remained incarcerated, facing sedition charges. Ceesay's case drew international concern, particularly after he was allegedly abducted twice by secret police. The United States expressed deep concern over his disappearance, highlighting the ongoing challenges to press freedom in The Gambia.

Key Takeaways from The Gambia:
  • President Jammeh released over 200 prisoners, including high-profile figures.
  • The releases followed celebrations of Jammeh's 21 years in power.
  • Journalist Alagie Ceesay remained imprisoned, facing sedition charges.
  • International concerns grew over Ceesay's alleged abductions by secret police.
The situation in The Gambia underscores the delicate balance between acts of clemency and ongoing human rights concerns. While the release of prisoners may signal a move towards reconciliation, the continued detention of journalists like Ceesay raises questions about the government's commitment to freedom of expression. For many observers, these mixed signals create a sense of uncertainty about the future of justice and human rights in the country.

Looking Ahead

The events of August 2015 offer a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges facing many African nations. From the complexities of political transitions to the threats posed by extremist groups, the continent's future hinges on addressing these critical issues. Continued international attention, diplomatic efforts, and a commitment to human rights and justice are essential for fostering stability and progress. The fight for a more peaceful and prosperous Africa continues.

About this Article -

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Everything You Need To Know

1

What specific actions did President Yahya Jammeh's government take regarding prisoners in The Gambia during August 2015, and what were the implications?

In The Gambia during August 2015, President Yahya Jammeh released over 200 prisoners as acts of clemency, including Joseph Wowo, Mamut Sarr, Mam Matarr Secka, and Kuluteh Manneh. However, journalist Alagie Ceesay was not released and remained incarcerated, facing sedition charges. This created a mixed signal regarding the government's commitment to freedom of expression and justice.

2

How did the international community react to the imprisonment of Alagie Ceesay in The Gambia, and what did it signify about the state of human rights there?

The continued detention of Alagie Ceesay in The Gambia, despite the release of other prisoners, raised international concerns, particularly after his alleged abductions by secret police. The United States expressed deep concern over his disappearance, highlighting the ongoing challenges to press freedom and human rights in the country. This pointed to a potential lack of genuine commitment to justice and reconciliation.

3

Based on the events of August 2015, what critical factors are essential for fostering stability and progress in African nations going forward?

The future stability and progress of African nations depend on addressing critical issues such as complex political transitions, ethnic clashes, and the threats posed by extremist groups like ISIS. Continued international attention, diplomatic efforts, and a commitment to human rights and justice are essential for fostering a more peaceful and prosperous Africa. Without these efforts, the challenges faced in August 2015 will likely persist.

4

Who were some of the high-profile prisoners released by President Yahya Jammeh's government in The Gambia, and under what circumstances were they released?

President Yahya Jammeh's government in The Gambia released Joseph Wowo, a former chief justice jailed for fraud, naval commander Mamut Sarr, and army officers Mam Matarr Secka and Kuluteh Manneh. The release of these high-profile individuals was part of a series of clemency measures, possibly linked to celebrations of Jammeh's 21 years in power.

5

What were the key conflicts and challenges facing Africa in August 2015, and how did they impact the continent's overall stability?

The key conflicts in Africa during August 2015 involved escalating ethnic violence, political instability, and the growing presence of ISIS. These events, compounded by human rights issues and challenges to press freedom as seen in the case of Alagie Ceesay, created a complex landscape that threatened the continent's stability and future. Addressing these intertwined issues is crucial for fostering progress and peace.

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