The President Dr. Alhaji Yahya Jammeh has reiterated his unreserved commitment to move the Gambia to higher heights, as already manifested in his development agenda. He was speaking on Saturday at the July 22nd Square in Banjul where a large crowd gathered for the' 10,000 Man March' condemning the March 21st attempted coup. Amid cheers and chant, saying "we need Yahya, we don't need old pa" and "we need peace", President Jammeh vowed never to betray his country, his people and Africa.

President Jammeh said that the reason for overthrowing the First Republic in 1994 was not driven by greed and selfishness, but it was a move to salvage the country and bring development to the people. He thanked patriotic Gambians and friends of the Gambia for showing solidarity with his government. President Jammeh advised Gambians not to allow anybody to divide them, while urging all to work together as one people for the development of the country.

The Chairperson of the organising committee of the event, Secretary of State Yankouba Touray said soldiers of the Armed Forces have no cause to overthrow the government of President Jammeh, as he puts it, their conditions of services have immensely improved as compared to years prior to the July 22nd takeover. He thanked all those who responded to the solidarity march, especially the sponsors and participants.

The Cuban ambassador to the Gambia Carlos Salsa Mendy who spoke on behalf of the diplomatic corps said coups give room to instability.

A representative of foreign nationals residing in the country Mr. Joseph Kofa, added his voice in condemning the coup.

The Chairperson of the occasion Honourable Fatoumatta Jahumpa Ceesay said the high turnout is a clear testimony of Gambians' total condemnation of the Coup D'etat as well as their unflinching support to President Jammeh.

Read the President's full Address