By Ollus Ndomu
The Gambia knows his name. Africa knows his work.
Essa M. Faal. International lawyer. War crimes investigator. ICC prosecutor. Now, a political voice Gambians cannot ignore.
He is not just talking. He is building a movement. Sobeyaa — “Turn Around.” A call for a new Gambia. A Gambia that works for its people.
Faal’s story does not start in politics. It starts in the courtroom. From East Timor to Darfur. From defending Charles Taylor to investigating genocide. This man knows power and how it is abused.
In 2021, he came home. Independent. Unafraid. He stood for president. No party machinery. Just courage and a promise: Turn the country around.
He lost the election, but he did not lose his voice. Today, Faal leads the APP-Sobeya Party. And he is louder than ever.
He calls out corruption by name. He tears into the economy with facts. He demands jobs for young people not just slogans.
Some say he is too blunt. Others say he is exactly what The Gambia needs.
One thing is clear: Essa Faal is not done. The 2026 elections are coming. And this man? He is just getting started.
At The African International Magazine, we believe in spotlighting Africa’s boldest voices. Leaders who refuse silence. Voices that shake the ground.
This issue, we bring you Essa M. Faal. One to watch. One to follow. One who might just rewrite Gambia’s future.
