Pap Cheyassin Secka facts for kids

Pap Cheyassin Secka, also known as Pap Cheyassin Ousman Secka (born June 1942 – died 29 March 2012), was an important Gambian lawyer and politician. He served as the Minister of Justice and also as the Attorney General of The Gambia.

Early Life and Education

Pap Cheyassin Secka was born in the Gambia Colony and Protectorate in June 1942. His parents were Ousman Secka and Neneh Jobarteh. He had two children, Oumie Secka and Ndondy Secka. His uncle was the famous Gambian historian and politician, Alhaji Alieu Ebrima Cham Joof.

He went to Methodist Boy's High School in colonial Bathurst, which is now Banjul, the capital of The Gambia. By 1962, he became a qualified teacher. He taught in The Gambia for many years. Later, he continued his education in the United States.

In 1964, he attended Hall Academy in New Jersey. He then went to the American University in Washington D.C.. There, he earned a BA degree in 1968 and a MA degree in 1969. While in the United States, he became involved in student politics. In 1970–71, he received a special scholarship at Columbia University. He officially became a lawyer in England in 1973. After that, Cheyassin Secka returned to The Gambia in 1973 to start his own law firm.

Career in Law and Politics

During the time of President Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, Cheyassin Secka became the leader of a political party called the National Liberation Party. This party was formed on 4 October 1975.

His political journey faced challenges. He spent almost 12 years in Mile Two prison, which is the main prison in The Gambia. He was later set free.

Around the year 2000, President Yahya Jammeh appointed Cheyassin Secka as the Gambian Attorney General. In April 2000, there was a large student demonstration in The Gambia. After a report about these events was shared, Cheyassin Secka was removed from his position by President Jammeh on 30 January 2001.

He was a skilled barrister at law and was known as one of the country's top lawyers. He began his legal career in 1973 as a practicing barrister. He was also a member of the Gambian Bar.

Later Life and Passing

Pap Cheyassin Secka passed away on 29 March 2012 in The Gambia. Reports say he felt a minor illness and was taken to the hospital. He later died after suffering a heart attack.