I had the same problem with my 02 Sequoia. To get the tailgate open and replace the broken handle you will have to remove the tailgate's panel cover.
The panel is affixed to the tailgate with about six to eight plastic stays on the back side of the panel.
You will need a "L"-shaped tool (The tool looks like a screw driver with its tip bent one-to-two inches.) that can be inserted under the panel's edge. Start @ the right, or left bottom corner.
After you pull the panel's second plastic stay away from the tailgate you will be able to use your hand to pull the rest of the stays away from the tailgate then push up on the panel to remove it.
After the panel is removed you will be able to see where the cable feeds into the broken handle. Use a pair of needle-nose pliers to pull the cable and open the tailgate. Toyota charges $100.00 for a new handle.
Hope this helps and is not to confusing.
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