Lawyer Ousainou Darboe, leader of the United Democratic Party, has urged Gambians to shun tribalism and religious intolerance and called on the public to expose people on divisive line.
In his nationwide Independence message he said: “Tribalism has no place in our society and we should never allow anyone to use tribalism and draw religious boundaries in our country and our communities.
Such dangerous messages are a recipe for disaster and we should expose those who use such divisiveness for their personal gains. Is there any Gambian who does not have relationships across all ethnic groups? We all have brothers, sisters, nephews, nieces, uncles, aunties and cousins who are of other ethnicities. This is what Gambia is made of and it will continue to be its DNA.”
“Our priority as a nation is to put our efforts and energy on creating a conducive environment for our people; especially the youth to thrive. Our priority should focus on ensuring that every Gambian child receives quality education and is equipped with the necessary skill sets to live to their full potentials and be able to fend for themselves and their family after their schooling. Our priority should be to ensure that the average Gambian lives in dignity and is able to put food on the table and feed their family; that we are able to eat healthy and nutritious foods; that food security and agriculture thrives in this country – not just for local consumption but as a viable business venture where farmers are well equipped with the necessary tools and opportunities to farm in the 21st century.
“Our priority should focus on ensuring that every health centre and hospital is fully equipped to serve each and every one of us irrespective of one’s social status. That our health professionals are equipped and motivated to serve us ethically and with professionalism as they should; that we do away with the water and energy curse that has haunted this country for almost 50 years and that we are able to fully engage in this global village with reliable and affordable internet connectivity and other twenty first century amenities that the rest of the world take for granted,” he said in a statement.
He said Gambians should form the ethos of what they should focus their energies on.
“We must not stand aside and condone this reputational and real damage that will affect our communities and generations yet unborn just for the selfish interest of a few power-hungry and corrupt individuals,” he urged.
He continued: “I urge each and every one of us to sensitise and educate their offspring and their fellow brothers and sisters on our moral obligations as patriotic Gambians; about our civic duty to make the right, honest and ethical decision For the Gambia Ever True.”