Many recent events support the assertion that indeed democracy is now a reality in our Republic 52 years since its birth. The famous German philosopher Hannah Arendt wrote that for a democracy to be seen to be different from a totalitarian terror state, the democracy must have regular tests on its robustness: on its key democratic institutions and polices and mores.
The National Audit Office(NAO) recently called a press conference to delve into audit reports it carried out in key state institutions. The fact that NAO was able to carry out its key function, without hinder or harm, compile its report, share it and call the press to follow up calling for action is a good indication that our democratic institutions are indeed working after two decades of coma.
Let us tell the truth to our children: just five years ago, such audacity would have been unheard of.
Neither would the decision by some of the Government institutions mentioned in the report to reply and clarify audit queries been possible just over five years ago. The essence of democracy is that it allows citizens and institutions to attend what Arendt calls the ‘great marketplace of ideas’ to defend and clarify.
Another piece of good news for your democracy is the fact that civil society is fully involved in the NAO audit press conference. In tyrannies, civil society does not exist; or even when they exist, they are marginalized and maligned such that Government institutions run away from them like the plague.
But the maturing democracy that we have has allowed key government institutions like NAO to work in tandem with NAO to promote accountability in governance. This is the way forward.
No sector or citizens stands to lose out in democracy. The democratic shade is caring and wide enough for all who seek its protection from the blazing sum of repression and darkness.
We cannot have half democracy; quarter of two thirds democracy. It has to come in full, hook line and sinker. Of course, disfavor no one; it is like ripe fruit which you can pick at your will and feed yourself. This is what is needed to be imbibed by all so that we will continue to have unity and peace in the country.
No anger, no bitterness, no chutzpah. Clarify when needed, account for each butut when asked to, and our democracy will be the better for it. Our Republic will continue to progress.
For The Gambia, Our Homeland.