By Bampha Jaiteh
The Lonely Poet!
Political awareness and active engagement are crucial for the prosperity and development of any nation. Leadership that is accountable, transparent, and free from corruption is essential for progress. Unfortunately, Africa, including The Gambia, has long struggled with these principles. Leaders should not see themselves as demigods but as servants of the people who elected them. Unfortunately, corruption and mismanagement have often hindered development, damaging the potential for progress.
The African National Congress (ANC) and The Gambia’s National Peoples Party (NPP) provide a stark contrast in political leadership. The ANC, originally a resistance movement against apartheid in South Africa, fought for justice through decades of struggle, imprisonment, and sacrifice. The party’s dedication to the oppressed Black majority in South Africa led to its eventual success, evolving into a multi-party democratic organization. The ANC’s journey from armed resistance to inclusive democracy has earned it international recognition and pride. The ANC, in its role as both a liberation movement and political party, has united South Africans across race and creed in their pursuit of freedom.
In contrast, the NPP’s origins lie in a coalition of political parties, including the United Democratic Party (UDP), which later broke away to form an independent political entity. The creation of the NPP, which some have called a “parallel” party, seemed motivated more by power struggles than a desire for meaningful change. Since its formation, the NPP has struggled with political inconsistencies, which have resulted in a series of failures for the nation.
The NPP, under President Adama Barrow, has led The Gambia into serious economic hardship, accumulating a national debt of over D120 billion. Corruption and embezzlement of public funds have left the country mired in insecurity, unemployment, and agricultural crises. Farmers struggling to access their sales, and millions of dalasi have been squandered on questionable projects, like the Independence celebration. Procurement fraud has become the only solution to these issues, while nepotism, tribalism, and internal party infighting continue to erode trust within the NPP. Recently, a chaotic congress in Mansakonko, where party elders engaged in bitter disputes, highlighted the growing tensions within the party.
The discontent among the Gambian electorate is palpable, especially in rural areas where people are suffering. Farmers, in particular, are frustrated as they are unable to sell their produce, with Ramadan fast approaching. The recent by-election in Kiang Masembeh has only amplified the frustration, as voters question whether the NPP government can continue beyond 2026.
The NPP’s track record contrasts sharply with the ANC’s achievements. While the ANC’s struggle for freedom and human rights has earned it global recognition and admiration, the NPP’s governance has been marked by failure and disillusionment. The Gambia, despite its 60 years of independence, is struggling with economic challenges, inadequate healthcare, and an overall lack of leadership.
In conclusion, while the ANC has become a symbol of political sanctuary and sacrifice, the NPP remains a cautionary tale of failed leadership. The difference between the two parties is as vast as the sky and the earth. With The Gambia’s 60th anniversary celebrations overshadowed by hunger and scarcity, the question remains: What are we, really celebrating?
