The British monarch, Elizabeth II, remained head of state of The Gambia, which shared its Sovereign with other Commonwealth realms.

The Queen's constitutional roles were mostly delegated to the Governor-General of the Gambia.

The first referendum in 1965, with 65.85% in favour and 34.15% against, failed to reach the two-thirds majority needed to pass.

The second in 1970 with 70.45% percent of the Gambian people voting in favour of a republic and 29.55% against, was successful.

Sir Dawda Jawara, the prime minister (and head of government) from 1965, became the first President of the Gambia.