By Yunus S Saliu
One of the popular independent candidates for the 2021 presidential elections has dilated on the peace and freedom existing in the country despite all the obstacles determined to achieve otherwise.
Marie Sock in her Independence Day celebration message has expressed that “56 YEARS TODAY, February 18 2021, fills us with renewed hope and excitement for better days to come,” as the country “still enjoys peace and freedom despite all the obstacles determined to achieve otherwise. We are truly a blessed nation.”
She used the occasion of the independence celebration to dilate on freedom, fairness, opportunity for all, diversity and inclusion thus no individual must be excluded from opportunity due to their social status, sex, religion, creed, affiliation, age, physical attributes, or political persuasion.
Madam Sock urged the youth of Gambia to feel the special pride of being citizens of a free nation as “we solemnly and gratefully remember our freedom fighters and martyrs whose sacrifices have enabled us to live in an independent nation.”
The independent candidate as well urged citizenry not to forget reigning heroes as coronavirus pandemic is still a prowling lion among the society and as such “our nation is indebted to doctors, nurses, and other health workers who have been continuously at the forefront of our fight against this virus.”
She described them as national heroes that are going much beyond their call of duty to save lives and ensure essential services and these doctors, health workers, police personnel, sanitation workers, delivery staff, transportation, aviation personnel, government employees, and generous citizens have been scripting inspiring stories of courage and selfless service.
She advised the populace to use the moment of the celebration to reflect upon what Gambia has achieved and what still need to achieve to become the great nation “we know ourselves to be.”
Freedom, she said is the hard-won right of all Gambians and everyone has the right to express their freedom, mindful that their choices come with responsibilities towards others. “This includes the freedom to earn a living and accumulate wealth, live where we want, love who we want, say what we believe, develop our talents, and pursue our dreams.”
She added that freedom is the engine of progress that will drive The Gambia forward and it inspires people to be innovative and allows the entrepreneurial spirit to thrive.
“The Gambia is a richly diverse society. Though our people come from different origins, worship in different ways and have different cultures and customs, we are all unique individuals. Diversity is one of The Gambia’s greatest assets. We celebrate diversity and recognize the right of each individual to be who they want to be, free from domination by others.
“The value of diversity aligns to and recognizes the injustices of our past and affirms that The Gambia belongs to all who live in it, united in diversity. It is this commitment that means we will continue to take active steps to promote and advance diversity in our own ranks,” she stated.
