A team backing Essa Faal, Sobeya, has warned against tribalism adding that if it is not tamed, shackled and buried it could upset the peace and democracy dividends our country currently enjoys.
“Unfortunately, however, all is not well. The ugly face of tribalism has reared its head during and the post electioneering period. If this is not tamed, shackled and buried it could upset the peace and democracy dividends our country currently enjoys,” the group said.
“Additionally, the propensity of the executive to sacrifice our highly important and very expensive transitional justice programme at the altar of political expediency is quite worrisome. These critical issues together with the unbridled prices of basic commodities, massive youth unemployment, lack of opportunities for the youth, women and other vulnerable groups as well as the poor infrastructure and non-existent healthcare system set a very daunting agenda for our country in the not-too-distant future,” the group added.
“Fellow Gambians, while this litany of imperatives may appear daunting, they are not insurmountable. We have unyielding faith in the ability of Gambians to achieve durable solutions to difficult problems even against the odds. The responsibility belongs to all of us (whether we are in government or not), to work arduously for the alleviation of the plight of our people. With greater unity and patriotism, less corruption and more rules of law and good governance and a healthy dose of meritocracy, we would be able to achieve the development goals of our people.
“As we welcome and celebrate the New Year, we should recognize that the elections are essentially over and that the dust has basically settled, even if not completely. And so should the petty bickering, unhelpful political noise, tribal tantrums from all and every quarter as well as the divisive rhetoric. We should all, as patriotic citizens, (be we in government or in opposition or as private citizens) re-channel our energies towards working for the betterment of our country and uplifting the lives of our people.
“Irrespective of our political differences (perceived or otherwise), we must all be united with the goals of strengthening the unity and cohesion of the entire Gambian people and improving their living conditions and economic well-being,” the group added.
