YAYA JAMMEH ISN'T OUR REFLECTION.

People, Nations, change over time, even if temporarily, mostly dependent on situations they're dealt. Depending on the experience, our positions, reactions and thought processes would swing. Biases, prejudices are built. Alliances are formed, new adversaries are made. This is all over the world. Gambia after the 1994 regime change, the United States after September 11, Manchester United after Ferguson retired. It's human nature.

In spite of all that, I do believe that Humans are generally good. That's not to say bad, evil souls aren't found in humans as are in jinns. What I found disappointing is to see folks allow a singularly distasteful experience shape the rest of their existence, and REFUSE TO SEE GOOD in others. That we have become cynics and natural critics that nothing from others could be out of good faith. That we've become so untrusting of others that  Our immediate endeavors or wishes would be for them to trip and fail, so their weaknesses, shortcomings get illuminated. Highlighted.

One reason why I never subscribe to the belief that Yaya Jammeh is a reflection of Gambians is because Yaya wasn't anybody before 1994. Prior to '94, things we're hearing, seeing in Gambia today were an anomaly, and the Gambia is a significantly older nation. It was not born in 1965. If we are able to live together, work together in such a cordial, near-excellent condition, how do we allow Jammeh's 22 year reign of misrule punctuated by repression and fear define us as a people or nation?

It'd help if we acknowledge and respect our situation, condition, that we're not unique. Any nation that tasted the pills of oppression or dictatorship suffer a great deal of division, disunity and trust deficiency because THAT'S how those kinds of regimes thrive. It's often always the circumstances that pushed everybody on a survival mode and the crabs in a barrel scenario ensues. I'm NOT saying that's OK. I'm only giving a reason for our temporary state that's going to change once this cancer is out.

Therefore, could we be a little optimistic and faithful instead of the over zealous cynicism and stop cultivating the 'Gambia Du Dem' mentality. I see that saying as an excuse. Could we be fair and honest that though Ibrahim once erred, even if it was in judgment, intentionally or not, he could still have the capacity to bounce back and get back on track. We cannot expect to make headway when each time David or Kaddijatou says or does something our instant reaction would be 'Don't trust them. They're not up to any good'? Why do we seek to poke hole in each other's motivations when we know that our individual efforts tho important, could not yield us much dividend as when we coalesce and work together?

We have to get to a point where hard decisions gotta be made, about leaving behind perennial cynics and naysayers, and forge on with those willing to ditch petty differences or still bruised over hurt feelings. The 21 years of dictatorship sure could impact our being but must not define us as a people and nation. Yaya Jammeh isn't a reflection of me or my people. Gambians are generally a good people. We're NOT seeking perfection but greatness. Perfection only a Godly attribute - says those of faith.

Kambia bitaa leh. Dina Dem.

Peace To The Planet!

Pata PJ