In its tribute, the PPP said the late Alhagie Yaya Ceesay belonged to a rare generation of committed patriots who stood alongside the founding fathers of The Gambia during the formative years of the party and the country’s democracy.
The party noted that at a time when political service required sacrifice and unwavering dedication, Hon. Ceesay devoted his energy, conviction and loyalty to supporting the elders who laid the foundation of the nation.
“His political journey was not driven by personal ambition, but by a deep and enduring love for country and community,” the statement read.
Despite having modest formal education, the PPP described him as a man of remarkable practical wisdom who rose through hard work, discipline and service to become a respected national figure.
His commitment to public service later propelled him into active politics, where he contested to represent his people in parliament before eventually serving in senior government positions during the First Republic under the leadership of Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara.
He served as State Minister and later as Minister for Local Government and Lands, positions through which he contributed significantly to national development and governance.
The PPP further recalled that following the 1994 military takeover, Hon. Ceesay remained steadfast in his loyalty to the party at a time when many were uncertain about the future of democratic politics in the country.
According to the statement, his courage and consistency during that difficult period helped preserve the identity and values of the PPP, earning him the trust and respect of party members nationwide.
He later served as National President of the PPP from 2001 to 2018, a role the party said he carried out with honor, humility and dignity.
The party also praised his decision to voluntarily step down from the position, describing it as a demonstration of visionary leadership and his belief in generational transition and renewal within the party.
The PPP described the late Alhagie Yaya Ceesay as more than a politician, saying he was a symbol of loyalty, resilience and selfless service whose contributions to the country and the party would never be forgotten.
The party extended condolences to his family, loved ones, supporters and the entire nation, praying for Allah to grant him eternal peace and reward him for his decades of service to The Gambia.
