Momodou Lamin Shyngle Nyassi who has been described in many quarters as the face of the opposition struggle in the Gambia has finally been laid to Rest. Mr. Nyassi’s funeral was held in Brikama where thousands of people converged to pay their last respect to the political hero who died of an apparent heart attack in New York while on a visit to the United States.
Mr. Nyassi’s burial was attended by high profile dignitaries from the opposition, community leaders including the ruling APRC government. He was once again described by the leader of the UDP as “our brother lion who never gave up. Shyngle’s vacuum will be hard to fill.” Darboe said in a somber mood. Many people spoke at the funeral describing the departed political hero as a man of principle, God fearing who gave up everything he had for his country.
Mr. Nyassi’s passing came amid high political tension in the country and many people were visibly emotional both at the burial and the farewell gathering that he was accorded in New York where he died. Many Gambians young and old came together to raise funds for the final transportation of Mr. Nyassi’s body back to Gambia.
Mr. Nyassi’s untimely death leaves a vacuum in the opposition struggle in Gambia that would be hard to fill. He was one politician who transcend partisan politics, tribal lines and age. He was willing to work with all sides and any group to bring about the needed political change Gambia is yearning for. He was the symbol of resistance to political oppression and he suffered more than any of the opposition leaders he was fighting with. Many Gambians are praying and hoping that what Shyngle gave up his life for would be a rallying force to unite the Gambia opposition against impunity in Gambia. He was certainly a brave citizen whose love for his country was unquestionable. He is indeed an inspiration that many people can look up and carry on his legacy. He will forever be remembered as a hero for standing tall and resisting injustice. May his gentle soul rest in eternal peace.