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Momodou
Denmark
11803 Posts |
 Posted - 13 Feb 2006 : 20:32:03
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THE GAMBIA AT A CROSS ROAD
Few days from now, Gambia will be celebrating 41years since independence was declared. On 24th April 2006 Gambia will also acknowledge 36 years of Republican existence. It is unprecedented that as all political forces seek to put the mark on the shaping of its destiny the political allegiances are changing by day and by night. The certainty in the old system can no longer be guaranteed and the arising and coming of a new system cannot be fully assured.
Gambia is in a state of flux, it is at this moment of uncertainty that the country needs collective leadership. It is that spirit of collective leadership that Obasanjo’s intervention sought to create.
As Gambia searches for a way forward, the spirit of collective leadership of the nation despite diversity of political aspirations should remain. That can only be if the governing party as well as the old and new alliances respect the fundamental principles enshrined in the Memorandum of Understanding between the ruling party, NADD and the other opposition parties. They should conduct their politics with dignity and integrity as befits the leaders of a dignified and respectful people. What is left of the NADD should not follow the trend of the UDP/NRP alliance. They should not engage the new alliance which has its right to be. They should engage the Gambian people to prove whether they are worthy of winning their confidence and trust.
All political figures must realise that leadership cannot be imposed in a democratic society. It is contested for and earned. The level of consciousness of the people and their needs and aspirations will determine who can earn their love, trust and confidence. The battle for the hearts and minds of the people has begun.
Gambia is fortunate that before this battle starts, guards and fences have been erected to confine political parties to the politics of genuine national issues characterized by integrity and decency.
If all forces adhere to this integrity and decency, the people will select a political leadership based on their enlightened consent that will be duty bound to address the aspirations of the people for liberty, dignity and prosperity. We hope the Gambian political forces with divergent views will not spend time talking about their differences; rather they should spend time telling the people what differences they can make to shape the destiny of the country. This is a more constructive approach.
Source: Foroyaa Newspaper Burning Issue
Issue No.11/2006, 13-15 February, 2006
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A clear conscience fears no accusation - proverb from Sierra Leone |
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