Now that the 2021 Presidential elections have come and gone peacefully, with the entire international community expressing confidence at the free, fair and transparent nature of the vote, it behooves Gambians to look ahead with confidence into the future. But truth to tell, the just ended election was just one of many others that have taken place in this country.
It is to our luck as a nation that since 1947, Gambians have been called regularly to elect their representatives in multiparty, multi candidate elections. This is an African record. In fact, Gambians are so much used to electing their leaders that when the army coup of July 1994 came, the junta was literally forced by popular opinion to return the country to democratic rule within 24 months, in August 1996. Popular choice, as espoused in regular multi-party elections are what we know as Gambians. This is the pleasant fact.
Another pleasant fact is that Gambians have mastered the art of doing elections in peace and quiet. Well, maybe you can argue that elections by their nature, cannot be quiet; yes, but our elections always pass off in a state of calm. The voter registration campaigns and hustings can be boisterous and very energetic with all candidates seeking to the catch the priceless attention of the voters. But all is done in the unique Gambian way of peace and tolerance. This is why, ours is one of the few countries that go to such crucial elections as the one done on December 4, and people go to work the next day.
Now what should the next day be like? First, the citizens should continue to remain tolerant. Now that the vote is over and President Barrow has been re-elected, all citizens, no matter who they voted for, should remain calm and peaceful. Elections come and go, but our Republic stays!
Second, every action, every utterance, every sight should be for a more beautiful and prosperous and united The Gambia. Insults, pejoratives, innuendoes should not be the manifesto of any political party or political actor. Instead, citizens and the parties should endeavour to cultivate a sense of patriotism that eschews petty squabbles
Third, we must all return to work. We cannot afford to start the campaigns for 2026 presidential now If we do, then we will not have time to work for our country. Politics should be seasonal and not a perennial affair. So that when the season is over, people will return to work, work and work to build a better Republic! Endless politicking is useless. It benefits only the careerists and disembowels the national effort.
This should be the way forward and we urge very Gambian to embrace it for the betterment of our country.