DWELL IN HEAVEN, MOM!

IF this period were to be the measure of my emotional or even physical strength, I'd failed so miserably. I'd looked at myself in the mirror so very many times to see my fleshed up frame carrying an evidently empty soul. I came to the realization that I was never as strong as I credited myself. Most times it takes a loss and some times a win, to gauge ones emotional tenacity.

2015, a year that I'd forever remember for its basketful of bad omen. A lot had happened. From my mom battling the many mild strokes, my only aunty passing, to my mother losing the fight. I'd been emotionally drained

Many a times I'd quieten down my public activities or wore a bold, unbothered public persona, but broke down and cried my pupils out alone from the stress and pressure of imagining what my moms was going through but more so, the possibility of losing her. Fact is, you're NEVER prepared for a loss of a parent. I savored every minute she was alive and at her best, but appreciated what I might have taken for granted more when that changed.

Anyone who knows me would know how I'd not hold a minute conservation without finding a way to thrust her name in it. That is my lady. That is my best friend. Truth is, I'd lost loved ones including my dad several years ago. They were tough losses but nothing slightly compares to moms. I'm my mommas boy!

The day doctors told us that she had a near-zero chance of making it, I'd already overdrafted on the permissible limit to which one should emotionally break down in a certain period. Deep inside, I wanted to accept what science and medicine said but deliberately laid in bed assuring myself that God and miracle are realer. I built this vault of hope that my mother would pull through this. I would wake up from sleep, grab phone to see if there was a missed call or message from Gambia about what I'd been dreading. I was calling my sister several times a day to ask if she'd moved any part of her body, said a word or opened her eyes. By this time I'd been struggling with the last images of the frail, helpless woman who was more than 40 years my senior, laid in bed. I was praying that  she walks out of that hospital even if aided by a machine, or AT LEAST SAY A WORD TO ME. Just say my name or know that I was on the phone.

My brother flying in to the Gambia to be with moms lessened the guilt and frustration that she might passed in our absence but not my hope that miracle was still possible. Ten days later, she'd pass away couple of hours after I'd spoken to them and was told her breathing had improved, though with the aid of an oxygen machine. I called back to tell my brother that they make sure she wasn't in a coma mistaken for dead. I was in denial. I was crushed by the hurt in his voice. He must have been exhausted from sobbing and disappointment that she succumbed to the fight. I wish we could have done anything more but we'd given ol' girl every fighting chance to cling on.

If God were to grant me just one favor, I'd ask that HE forgives my mother's earthly shortcomings, transgressions and wheel her through the pearly gates of Heaven, to dwell in peacefully. That assurance, I'd take over anything. That would ease the disturbed thoughts of all the unpleasant fears of the unknown in the grave.

Different people deal with emotional turbulence and grief differently. I withdraw in to my shell because I have the propensity to break down when my soft spot is poked. So to all those who called and/or sent messages, I do apologize for not responding early. That's my weakness. However, YOU ALL eased this period for me. During the moment that I withdrew, I thought I was doing well sedating myself with anything that would help me sleep the pain away only to wake up and pick from where I'd left it. What I realized was that your calls and messages were more comforting, consoling and helpful. They soothed me. I garnered strength from the condolences and prayers, AND I Thank YOU!

To my girl, my mommy, I hope you're in a better place. I do sometimes find myself picking the phone wanting to call you in the mornings, then catch myself. With time, the wound will heal but the mark shall be eternal. And I'm OK with that. I'll be fine, and very sure will continue to have those days and moments for the rest of my life. And that too, I'm OK with. If I had known I wasn't seeing you again, I'd have hugged and squeezed to break a bone, but we settled for a hug! In the next Life I'd still choose you for a mother. I'm my mother's child.

FOREVER YOUR BABY, JO!

Pata J. Saidykhan

YAYA'S MISSION IS TO DESTROY. AND DESTROY, HE WILL

Yaya Jammeh has for the longest time graduated from intimidating and/or 'teaching' your people lessons. He's been on the very mission he's had since birth, translated to possibility on the day the gang of bandits with arms accidentally chose him to lead what'd become a murderous enterprise.

Yaya's primary goal is to wreck YOU and your countrymen, bring them down to what he had always been - NOTHINGNESS. The hateful, vindictive nature of this man is his motivation in everything he does in life: 'As long as I'm in this position, NO Gambian shall shine or realize their potential.'

Yaya Jammeh will continue to stunt and eventually destroy your country's creme de la creme (the youth) and shorten the lives of your parents and country's gem. Because he's never known, had, love from the womb to the cradle to adulthood, he's taking is misery on your countrymen. To him, your potential, ability, success is a threat to his soul. It burns him.

Inarguably, there's barely on a hands count, very few 'deserved' people languishing in jail. Majority of them are innocent, thrown in detention to rot (physically, psychologically) in hell, as he giggles and amuses himself at their peril. The one thing to help save what's left of our good people is to refuse to partake, any shape or form, in his quest to destroy your own people. Those with better, richer conscience, would do what these two ladies and those before them did, by refusing to give false testimonies against an innocent man. Refuse without uttering 'No', by not showing up at their treacherous dealings. I'd be killed first before I be an accomplice in sending another person to hell for Yaya Jammeh. It's sad.

We have to translate our disgust, frustration and contempt for the awful leadership and regime by turning our backs on them. Otherwise, YOU and I remain the next meal on the menu - Victims.

Peace To The Planet.

Pata PJ

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

GAMBIA: LET AMADOU, MAMUT & EBOU GO!

In the past couple of years, a few things about the Gambia and are her affairs had me devastated and broken down to a point of withdrawal. I'd doubted if I was indeed emotionally and psychologically prepared for this fight to rid Gambia of the repressive jaws of the 21-year old tyrant with all the emotional rollercoaster.

When the video clip of a visibly tortured Amadou Sanneh paraded on GRTS surfaced, I was crushed. I was sad and wept for the old man who was physically manhandled to coerce and force a confession of wrongdoing out of him before he had his day in court. The humiliation had me livid.

On December 30, 2014, when an attempt to effectively terminate the worst regime subsaharan Africa has seen including during colonialism. It was bad enough that Yaya Jammeh was not caged or riddled with bullets, the lost of lives that we suffered of decent patriots who risk it all for country and her people still feels like a nightmare that wish I could undo. We've still not recovered from that.

The reason I reserved a lot of respect for sister Juka Ceesay is beside her unflinching commitment to getting work done, this young lady embodies what 'true family' is. She is relentless and courageous in refusing to budge as she fights on with hope and faith that her brother Alhagie Mamut Ceesay would come home. Same can be said of a devout, bravehearted wife Mai Badgie. When I saw her at the demonstration in DC with her son under the scorching sun, I stared and applauded. But things were unbearable when the whole family including the mother of Mamut Ceesay, broke down on radio, pleading for their family loved ones to be let go. That faithful Friday afternoon was tough.

All these are caused and brought to us by one person - Yaya Jammeh. The President of the Gambia, elected and sworn in to serve and protect Gambian lives and properties, has chosen to not only abuse but maim and disappear innocent nationals who pose no threat to him or his regime. This man, who had from childhood been a beneficiary of the people and families he derives pleasure from hurting, has been nothing but a vindictive, mean-spirited renegade. He's become synonymous to Gambian State and his paranoia has morphed the State into a heartless Dracula.

When news of 'Amnesty' and Prisoner 'Pardon' broke, I held my breathe with anticipation that many innocent people languishing in state custody, but must especially Amadou Sanneh, Alhagie Mamut Ceesay and Ebou Jobe, would be let go to reunite with their families. Until very recently, when I wake up the first thing I do is to check 'breaking news' headlines to a point that I'd recently dreamt about them granting an interview on radio. That is how emotionally invested I am in this. I've struggled to comment about them because the many questions about why they're detained in the first place and obvious uncertainty of their condition is tough to imagine. Why they're still kept when murderers, rapists and large-scale drug dealers walked is beyond me. Well not really. The explanation could be found in the hateful, unreasonable, erratic nature of an unfair, unjust president in Jammeh.

I've been deflated for over a week and thought I'd tune out to take a break but it's impossible. Despite our disappointments we must never relent or despair. The resolve and faith of the families who are going through this are an inspiration. We must redouble our efforts to demand the release of these gentlemen by hitting all pressure points. Yaya Jammeh, the State are solely responsible for the wellbeing of these people, and we'll continue to hold him personally accountable.

FREE AMADOU
FREE EBOU
FREE MAMUT

Pata PJ

August 6, 2015

THE GAMBIA DEMOCRACY FUND MUST NOT DIE!

YOU ARE GDF. I AM GDF. WE ARE GDF.

This is YOUR project. OUR project. The people who have had enough of the mal-administration in the country by an executive ran by one selfish individual, who has no regard for you and your existence, are reminding you us that we cannot endure this burden any longer. The people have seen 21 years of tyranny which is evident of the existential threat that the Gambia and her people face. The people have cried under the yoke of oppression that has taken away what's yours to replace it with a replenished crop of unconscionable draculas whose everyday occupation has been to keep you a downtrodden nation and a people.

We're left with no choice but to pick ourselves up, raise our voices, hands and #pockets to put an end to this. We have the capacity, with the human resources at our disposal. You may say a lot about the thinly stretched land that we call home, but since her coming to being, the Gambia was never short of better, greater, able sons and daughters to keep her alive since the 'improbable nation' tag was thrown at it. The tag didn't stick because WE refused. This period isn't any different. The long, hard but temporal undemocratic space that we are in is about to crumble. Crumbling not by itself but because you and I refused to entertain it any longer. All what is required is actionable action to walk out of this abusive relationship.

GDF is here to be a #vehicle for a needed change. There are 'Drivers' at GDF but YOU the Gambian, the only donor, are it's #engine. Let's oil the engine and be our own GPS and/or map. Let's support in anyway, any capacity we can but most importantly with our pockets to uproot the current system and replace it with a big, better system of our choosing. Let's chip in what we could, and NO amount is too small.

YOU ARE GDF. I AM GDF. WE ARE GDF. Don't accept anything to the contrary.

Pata PJ
August 17, 2015

FOR THE GAMBIA? NAH, SOME WILL THROW SAND IN THE MEAL.

NOW, I know I'm NOT the best grade of #weed in the dispensary but I'm above average.

If you're born into a family of dummies, with parents the ultimate definition of STUPID, you can't undo that relationship because they're your parents. But if YOU signed up for a relationship of any kind with a friend and they're as stupid as it could get, you have a choice to live with the embarrassment. You can always undo a friendship where the other party's stupidity is contagious.

I can kinda tolerate if you play like you're smarter than me. But when your head gets swollen to believe that you're the smartest cookie in the jar, you lose me.

This is one reason Yaya #Jammeh is bad for humanity, including his own kids. He forces the worst out of Gambians at home and abroad. He's made Pata PJ believe that he'd make the best village Chief. I've seen nail cutters turned overnight legal experts, teachers became wrestlers, drug dealers/abusers are now moral police, wife beaters the marriage counselors. Our dislike for a person or thing turned the best among us into bitter, potential killers pointing the pistol at any head just cos we've been possessed by our inadequacies. Insecurities.

IF my aim is to rid the Gambia of repression, I'd not break anyone's GPS if they're set out for the same mission. You'd think it'd be that easy but I guess NOT. We hate leaders as much as we do followers. Nothing hurts me more than getting disappointed by the people I'd respected.

Let's PRAY!

Pata PJ

THE GAMBIAN OPPOSITION PROPOSES & DEMANDS ELECTORAL AND CONSTITUTIONAL REFORMS

The Gambian Opposition Group of Six (G6) issued a statement to the press detailing their demands for reasonable and needed changes to the country's electoral laws, following several electoral cycles that were marred by irregularities.

It was a known secret that following the boycott of the 2011 presidential elections by the regional body ECOWAS, all but one of the opposition parties chose non-participation and sat out a couple of election cycles pending reforms. These release which has been in the works for two years, is pursuant to those demands, and has been copied to The President of the Republic of The Gambia, The Chair person IEC, The Speaker of the National Assembly, The Chief Justice, The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, The Secretary General ,United Nations; The Chairman, African Union ; The High Representative For Foreign Affairs , EU; The Chairman , ECOWAS; The Secretary of state, United States and Reverend Jesse Jackson.

*************************************

1. PROTECTION OF FRANCHISE

The opposition observed that section 39 of the constitution of the Gambia guarantees the right of all Gambians, who are 18 years and above, being resident at home or abroad, to be registered as voters and to vote at public elections. The right of Gambians resident abroad to be registered as voters and to vote is also statutorily granted by Section 11 and Section 141 of the Elections Act.

Therefore the Opposition demands among other things the recognition and observance of the right of all Gambians to be registered as voters and to vote, irrespective of whether they are resident at home or abroad.

It is further proposed for general registration of voters to be conducted a year before the beginning of each electoral cycle and supplementary registration of voters be conducted annually during an electoral cycle, comprising presidential, national Assembly and council elections.

Further measures were proposed aimed at preventing fraudulent registration through attestation,


2. PROTECTION FROM GERRYMANDERING AND- ENSURING EQUAL REPRESENTATION
The opposition noted that section 50 of the Constitution makes provision “for the establishment of a Constituency Boundaries Commission” since 2001 which has been honoured with disregard. The absence of such a commission had led to gross imbalance in respect to the size of constituencies thus negating the ideal situation of having constituencies with equal population or equal number of voters, which alone could give effect to the principle of equal number of persons determining equal number of representatives.

Hence Kombo North constituency, which is entitled to one National Assembly member, has 110,000 registered voters, which is more than the number of voters registered in all the three constituencies combined in the Banjul administrative area; all the Constituencies combined in the Kerewan administrative area; all the 6 constituencies combined in the Mansa Konko administrative area; all the 11 Constituencies combined in the Janjanbureh administrative area and all the 7 constituencies combined in the Basse administrative area, respectively.
The opposition demands the immediate enactment of the Constituency Boundaries Commission Act and the immediate demarcation of constituencies prior to the general registration of voters, on the basis of the principle of equal number of inhabitants or equal number of voters for each constituency.

It strongly recommends that, in the event of any constituency boundaries delineation exercise, the demarcation proposed by The Commission under the Chairmanship of Arch Bishop Tilewa Johnson be given due consideration.

3. PROTECTION OF THE INDEPENDENCE OF THE INDEPENDENT ELECTORAL COMMISSION

The opposition observed that the removal from office of three Chairpersons of the Independent Electoral Commission and other members by the executive prior to even serving one seven-year term and the failure to publish the appointments in the Gazette so that the courts could take judicial notice of them, have undermined the Independence of the Commission and the security of tenure of its members and has also facilitated an overstay of membership beyond the limit established by the Constitution.

The opposition demands that all appointments of commission members be gazetted as required by law for all subsidiary legislations and those who have served more than two seven year terms should vacate their seats and no member of the Commission be removed for any reason without the setting up of a tribunal comprising three judges of superior courts to determine any allegation of misconduct or infirmity.

It is further proposed that the membership of the Commission be increased to seven excluding the Chairperson so that there is a Commissioner responsible for each of the seven Administrative Areas.
In order to instill confidence in all stakeholders and guarantee the absolute independence of the Commission, a constitutional amendment is proposed to make it mandatory to draw members of the Commission from TANGO, The Gambia Bar Association, The Gambia Press Union, the Gambia Christian Council, The Supreme Islamic Council, The Gambia Teacher’s Union, The National Youth Council as long as they function as non partisan civil society segments. Appointments should be sensitive to the principle of gender equity.

4. PROTECTION OF THE ABSOLUTE MAJORITY PRINCIPLE AND UNDILUTED CHOICE

The opposition observed that section 48 of the Constitution which was amended was approved at a referendum in 1996 to ensure that a President is elected by the absolute majority to guarantee undiluted choice.
The relevant portion of the amended provision stated that

“(3) No person shall be elected as President on a first ballot unless the votes cast in his or her favour at the election are more than fifty per cent of the total number of votes validly cast at that election.
.The opposition proposes the re-enactment of this constitutional provision before the 2016 Presidential Elections.

5. PROTECTION FROM FRAUDULENT REGISTRATION PRACTICE

It is statutorily established and mandatory for every Gambian citizen being 18 years or older to possess a national Identity card. We demand that the National ID serves as the principal document to be produced or an affidavit indicating its loss, defacing or destruction, to determine age and citizenship for registration as a voter. We demand that all those who are registered using an affidavit to appear before a revising court to show their new ID cards or have their names struck out.

The opposition proposes that, like the voter’s card, the ID card should be made universally accessible, at public expense for all Gambians 18 years or older. Cost should be involved only if replacement is needed.
It is further proposed for the Elections Act to make provision for each registration team to be monitored by two registration agents appointed by each registered political party and maintained by a fund set up for that purpose and administered by the IEC.

It is strongly recommended that street names and compound numbers of registered voters in cities and towns and kabilo names and compound numbers of voters in villages be included in registers of voters to detect and serve objections against those who have unlawfully registered as voters.

6 NON INTERFERENCE OF PUBLIC SERVANTS AND THE DISCIPLINED FORCE IN PARTISAN MATTERS

The opposition observes that Section 41 of the Constitution provides “equal access to public facilities and the media by candidates at public elections.”

Section 222 adds that “ no public servant or member of the disciplined force should

(a) Allow his or her political inclinations to interfere with the discharge of his or her official duties;

b) be a member of, or take part in any association of persons which might prevent him or her from impartially discharging his or her duties; or

(c) take part in any activities which cast doubt on his or her capacity to deal impartially with matters or issues which are the concern of his or her public office or which interfere with the performance of his or her public duties. ”
The opposition further observes that the Memorandum of understanding between parties makes it obligatory for all parties to “respect the full separation of powers as detailed in the constitution.

II. Not seek in any way to unduly influence or use other arms of government for political purposes;

III. “Refrain from using Civil Servants and public funds for campaign purposes.”

.The opposition, therefore demands that all parties refrain from using public servants, members of the disciplined force, traditional rulers, public facilities and public funds for campaign purposes; that the post of head of the civil service be divorced from cabinet post; that no circular be issued to public servants by departmental heads requesting them to participate in any matter which has partisan objectives.

7. PROTECTION OF SECRECY OF THE BALLOT

The opposition took note of the provision of Section 40 of the constitution which states that, “All public elections and all referenda voting shall be by secret ballot.”

The opposition has given reasons why the voting method where Polling agents are required by law to sit where they would not be able to know how a voter voted but would know that only one ballot has been cast by listening to the sound resulting from the impact of ballot tokens on the internal baffle plate or device in each ballot box which should emit the same sound to avoid detection, has become anachronistic and proposes ballot papers to replace the marbles.

8. PROTECTION FROM THE ABUSE OF INCUMBENCY

The opposition highlighted that Section 208 of the Constitution calls on : “All state owned newspapers, journals, radio and television shall afford fair opportunities and facilities in the presentation of divergent views and dissenting opinion.”

Since all parties are required to prepare manifestoes, we demand that all parties are periodically given access to the state media to explain the content of their manifestoes and debate on them.
The opposition proposes the adoption of a campaign period of three months duration to enable the voters to be well informed and create a level ground before elections.

9. PROTECTION AGAINST OSTRACISM OR STIGMA OR DISCRIMINATION

Relying on Section 26 of the Constitution which states that, “Every citizen of The Gambia of full age and capacity shall have the right, without unreasonable restrictions-

(a) to take part in the conduct of public affairs, directly or through freely chosen representatives;

(b) to vote and. stand for elections at genuine periodic elections for public office, which election shall be by universal and equal suffrage and be held by secret ballot;”

The opposition observed that it is reasonable restriction to bar a child or one suffering from infirmity from standing for public elections but would constitute unreasonable and unjustifiable restriction to bar a Gambian from standing for public1elections who is above the age of a child and is of sound mind and body.

It recommends for the amendment of section 63 of the constitution so that an upper age limit would not constitute a bar to participation as a presidential candidate.

It is also recommended that a Gambian stationed abroad to work, study or for any other purpose be considered to be ordinarily resident in the Gambia.

10. The Opposition endorsed the IEC’s recommendation to the National Assembly for electoral law review to exclude Attestation Forms from the documents that are to be forwarded to the Registration Officers during registration of voters” to determine citizenship and the request to re-introduce the screening of registration applicants by registering officers.

The opposition further supports the proposal to mandate the IEC to demarcate boundaries before the setting up of a boundaries Commission and hold Presidential and National Assembly Elections on the same day using paper ballot as the system of voting.

11. TWO TERM LIMITATION ON TENURE FOR THE PRESIDENCY

The opposition recommended the promulgation of a two term limit of four or five year duration per term to enhance greater political stability and national peace and security.

11. VACANCY IN THE OFFICE OF PRESIDENT

Running Mate or Election Within 90 days

The Opposition observes that Section 65 of the Constitution provides for the assumption of the office of President by the Vice President whenever the office of president becomes vacant and by the speaker if there is no Vice president. To ensure that no person becomes president who is not elected by the people we recommend the adoption of the practice of having a running mate in contesting presidential elections. In the event that a vacancy occurs after the running mate assumes office we recommend that an election to the office of President be held within 90 days after the office of president becomes vacant, if the remaining term is more than two years. In any other case the Speaker of the National Assembly would assume the office for the rest of the term.

12. THE REVITALISATION OF THE INTERPARTY COMMITTEE

The opposition proposes for the revitalisation of the Interparty Committee to enable it to serve as a forum for dialogue and cooperation to promote participatory democracy anchoring on the level ground required for the holding of free, fair and genuine elections.

The opposition further proposes that the Interparty Committee be given a statutory mandate to enable it to foster dialogue on broader Constitutional, Legal, Institutional and Administrative reforms touching on the mandate and operations of the Executive, National Assembly, The Judiciary, Regional Administration, the National Council for Civic Education and the IEC in order to promote good governance, participatory democracy and genuine elections

ISSUED ON JUNE 15, 2015

YAYA JAMMEH 'PARDONS' PRISONERS. BUT FOR WHAT?

I'm happy for the Families of the 85 'prisoners' 'pardoned' by President Yaya Jammeh and would like to congratulate them for the reunion.

What I wouldn't do is to credit Jammeh for a 'gesture' that some are seeing as magnanimous. Yaya does not have the conscience or the heart to do anything in good faith. So my wary instincts put me on a pessimistic alert, and I started looking for holes in his recent move.

First of all, for a country that's not only an open prison but a whales tummy where many citizens are unaccounted for - disappearances, kidnapping, detention without trials - 85 people is a very small figure after all these years. Besides, let's see how many of these:

a) are Political Prisoners or prisoners of conscience.
b) have been Tried in court and rightfully convicted.
c) already served their terms.
d) dumped in 'remand' without ever been charged of a crime.
e) are 'real' persons in prison and do not included dead ones or 'fictitious' inmates.

Here is why! For a president who just a week ago was threatening to 'slit the throats' of perceived adversaries to be this 'magnanimous' in observance of the country's 50th independence anniversary that happened 4 months ago, to open the gates for convicted 'criminals' is an unprecedented kindness.

Secondly, a week doesn't go by without reports of families crying that their loved ones 'haven't come home'; we have the cases of missing people from Chief Manneh, Kanyiba Kanyi, to Ebou Jobe and Alhagie Mamut Ceesay; people prosecuted and persecuted for their political beliefs (Amadou Sanneh et al), families of those allegedly involved in December 30 liberation attempt who have committed NO crimes; people who beat their cases in the Courts (Mabury Njie et al) but still languishing in jail. It is the Gambian State's responsibility to make sure that these people and their rights are protected. All these mentions have one common denominator - JAMMEH. He either sanctioned their conditions or knew about it. That is why I'm very cautious with this because Yaya is a hypocrite but a shrewd politician too. You cannot want to present yourself as merciful, benevolent lover of people when we've seen you proposing legislation that'd license you to legally murder more Gambians. That's a serious contradiction. I suspect that he's dangling a carrot while he plots something sinister, evil and major.

But even if we do want to give him the benefit of the doubt to say it was in good faith, it's still not good enough if all/most of those 'pardoned' seem to be low level convicts (petty thieves, weed possession, trespassing etc).

Jammeh DOES NOT have the capacity to EVER do good. So this isn't good enough and not worth a credit or celebration. A friend of mine succinctly reminded us of Malcolm X's stabbing in the back with a nine inches knife, pulling out five inches and want to call that a progress. Same in this case. Yaya isn't up to any good! Watch him tell them that he could have killed them if he wants but he didn't want to take them out of their miseries. This nigga sick

PDOIS’ POSITION ON THE GAMBIA GOVERNMENT'S BILLS

PDOIS’ POSITION ON THE BILLS REQUIRING A MILLION DALASI TO REGISTER A POLITICAL PARTY AND EXTENDING THE DEATH PENALTY TO CRIMES NOT ASSOCIATED WITH KILLING

THE EXECUTIVE IS ON A COLLISION COURSE WITH LAW, REASON AND THE PRINCIPLE OF THE SOVEREIGNTY OF THE PEOPLE 

Events of far reaching political significance are unfolding right before our own eyes. Many lessons of fundamental significance to our existence as a people need to be drawn. History teaches us that those who are to be equal to the task of being the architects of their own destiny must neither be driven to a state of despair or desperation. Despair leads to passivity and resignation while desperation leads to adventurism and over-reaction. A Sovereign people must always be in charge. They must never fear difficulty. They must be ready to make all necessary sacrifices to surmount every challenge to be in charge of their own destiny.

ON A COLLISION COURSE WITH LAW AND REASON 

Two Bills are already published in the Gazette. Gazette No: 13 of 1st June 2015 publishes a Bill aiming to amend the Elections Act which includes key clauses which are unreasonable and unjustifiable and whose implementation, if enacted, would contravene the letter and spirit of the Constitution. 

Allow us to start with the amendments proposed for Section 105 of the Elections Act which deals with the registration of political parties.

If the Bill is enacted, political parties would be required to pay a registration fee of one Million Dalasis among other requirements. Why are these amendments on a collution course with law and reason? The answer is simple.

APRC, GMC, GPDP, NRP, PDOIS, PPP and UDP are already registered political parties. These parties cannot be de-registered for not complying with a law which was not in existence when they were registered. This is clearly stipulated under Section 100 Subsection (2) (c) of the Constitution. It leaves no ambiguity in stating that “The National Assembly shall have no power to pass a bill to deprive any person retroactively of vested or acquired rights. The National Assembly should heed the command of law and seek not to deprive any party of its acquired rights. Any such attempt could be challenged. 

Needless to say, if the bill is enacted to govern the registration of new parties without the retroactive application of the law an absurdity would be engendered. In short, one would have two different standards for registration for parties which should have equal rights. This would also be unconstitutional since section 33 of the Constitution has stated without ambiguity that “Subject to the provisions of subsection (5), no law shall make any provision which is discriminatory either of itself or in its effect.”
It defines discrimination as “affording different treatment to different persons attributable wholly or mainly to their respective descriptions by race, colour, gender, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status whereby persons of one such description are subjected to disabilities or restrictions to which persons of another such description are not made subject, or are accorded privileges or advantages which are not accorded to persons of another such description.”

Hence PDOIS calls on the executive to withdraw this Bill, open up consultation with the opposition to reach a consensus on credible electoral reform and set the Gambia on the trail of free, fair and genuine elections starting with Presidential elections in 2016.
There is no way of escaping a formidable opposition in 2016. No bad law could stop a people who are determined to take charge of their destiny. The greater the obstacles, the greater becomes the resolve to overcome them. Only the chicken hearted try to cheat destiny and they do so without any honour due to them. The lion hearted always look at destiny squarely in the face. History will tell how our current decision makers would be classified.

The second amendment is published in Gazette No. 14 of 10th June 2015. It seeks to amend Section 18 Subsection (2) of the constitution which states: “As from the coming into force of this Constitution, no court in The Gambia shall be competent to impose a sentence of death for any offence unless the sentence is prescribed by law and the offence involves violence, or the administration of toxic substance, resulting in the death of another person.”

In short, the Constitution is saying he or she who has not used violence to kill any one does not deserve to be sentenced to death. This is a just and reasonable law.
The executive of the Gambia is however not satisfied with the law. It wants Subsection (2) to be amended by “deleting the words appearing immediately after the word “law”.

Hence if the amendment happens to be enacted the constitution would permit the sentencing to death of any person for offences other than using violence or toxic substances to kill another person. In short, once a law is passed in the National Assembly allowing a sentence of death for economic crimes, sedition , libel, false news , etc it could be enforced by the courts.
This matter should not be taken lightly. In fact, in 2010 the National Assembly and the executive enacted a law which imposed the death penalty for crimes associated with drugs. We are among those people who exposed that the law was unconstitutional pointing out that it contravened Section 18 Subsection (2) which does not permit any body to be killed who has not killed another person by using violence or toxic substances. 

Eventually, the state had to repeal the law in 2011. Now they want to amend Section 18 Subsection (2).
What then are its objects and reasons for proposing an amendment? 

It is strange that the executive only stated the policy direction of the bill without stating what they wanted to remedy.
It simply states that “the amendment seeks to amend the 1997 Constitution of The Gambia to provide for the application of the death penalty in circumstances other than where there is actual violence or administration of toxic substance resulting in death.”
Why would the executive aim to apply the death penalty on people who have not killed? Which mind or conscience could justify such logic? The Constitution was however sensible enough not to give them the final say. 

Since life is very precious the Constitution decided to give the final say to the people to decide on such an amendment through a referendum.
This is why the executive mentioned the following in the bill:
“However, since Section 18 falls under the entrenched clauses of the Constitution the amendment Bill will also have to be subjected to a referendum after it is passed by the National Assembly.”
However, the constitution is categorical in stating that a Bill of the National Assembly altering any of the entrenched provisions, “shall not be passed by the National Assembly or presented to the President for assent unless-
“before the first reading of the Bill in the National Assembly, the Bill is published in at least two issues of the Gazette, the latest publication being not less than three months after the first, and the Bill is introduced into the National Assembly not earlier than ten days after the latest publication;

Hence the Bill cannot be tabled at the National Assembly before September 2015 when the three months and ten days would have elapsed as required by the constitution.

It is at this point that the Bill would be subjected to a second and third reading at the National Assembly and if supported by three quarters of the members the National Assembly it would then be referred to the Independent Electoral Commission by the speaker. The Commission is required to hold a referendum within 6 months.

Before an amendment could take effect fifty percent of the persons who are entitled to vote in the referendum must vote and at least seventy five percent of those who voted must support the Bill.
If a Bill is supported the Commission must issue a certificate indicating compliance with all the constitutional procedures which must be presented to the President with the Bill for his assent which must be done within seven days for the amendment to take effect after publication in the Gazette.

Power belongs to the people. PDOIS will leave no stone unturned in doing its duty to raise the awareness of the people and organise them so that they would be conscious of their transformative powers. The type of people we have will determine the type of society we are going to live in. We are all in it together. Together we will make history in rejecting any attempt to use death as a punishment for crimes which entitle a person rehabilitation and in refusing for “Money – cracy” to prevail over democracy. 

The people will prevail since they possess superior power. This is the verdict of history and it is irrevocable.
The End

06/20/2015

THE UNITED DEMOCRATIC PARTY (UDP) STATEMENT ON THE “NO ELECTION” BILL

Following the Gambia Government's desire to further constrict the democratic space, with the help of the Independent Electoral Commission, by amending the Election laws, the Gambia's main opposition party gives an initial reaction.

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THE UNITED DEMOCRATIC PARTY STATEMENT ON THE “NO ELECTION” BILL FOR RATIFICATION BY THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY 

APRC supporters of various categories had in the past called for “No Election” in The Gambia. Election to representative institutions in The Gambia takes place more often between candidates sponsored by different political parties. There have been instances where independent candidates and party sponsored candidates vie for the same elective office. APRC’s biggest impediment to it’s supporters’ “No Election” call is Section 100(2)(a) of the Constitution.
President Yahya Jammeh and his enablers and collaborators have now found a route to realize APRC’S “No Election” agenda.

President Yahya Jammeh in his self perpetuating scheme is calling on the National Assembly to ratify his party’s anti free fair and transparent election by endorsing a Bill titled the Elections (Amendment) Act 2015.

The amendment calls for the payment/deposit, of One Million Dalasi to the IEC as a condition for contesting presidential elections. The current requirement is to deposit D10,000.00 that is refundable to a losing candidate provided that he secures not less than 40% of the votes cast. Yahya Jammeh’s amendment will now increase the payment/deposit by D990,000.00.
Candidates aspiring to contest in the National Assembly elections will with the Yahya Jammeh amendment now pay/deposit the D100,000.00 instead of D5,000.00. This is increased by D95,000.00. The payment/deposit required of Mayoral candidates is increased by D47,500.00. That is a jump from D2,500.00 to D50,000.00 whilst those contesting as Ward Councillors have their deposits/payments increased by D8,750.00. The deposit/payment for councillors has jumped from D1,250.00 to D10,000.00

The proposed amendments are preposterous and ridiculous. They expose Jammeh’s unwillingness for meaningful electoral reform. The Jammeh amendment ignores the fact that Section 26 of the Constitution guarantees every citizen of The Gambia of full age and capacity the right without unreasonable restrictions to take part in the conduct of public affairs directly or through freely chosen representatives; to vote and stand for elections at genuine periodic elections for public officers.
The monetary conditions required to be satisfied by any person who wishes to contest for any of the elective office constitute unreasonable restrictions to the exercise of guaranteed rights to do so. 

What is the rationale for decreeing the payments/deposits as non refundable? Why charge a fee of One million dalasi for registering a political party? Is the IEC now a business/commercial enterprise?
Members of the National Assembly should reject the Bill in toto. They (APRC NAMs) risk becoming hostages to the whims and caprices of Yahya Jammeh who at will expels any member of the APRC.

National Assembly Members must not allow themselves to be placed in political servitude and bondage.

United Democratic Party Secretariat
No. 1 Rene Blain Street
Banjul

19 June 2015

JAMMEH SEEKS TO LEGALLY MURDER.... Thanks To The National Assembly.

As if the Gambians dying of curable diseases, in the prisons, fleeing the Economic hardship and political persecution to die in the Mediterranean as they hit the high seas to enter Europe aren't enough, the Gambian State wants to Murder more Gambians.

The Government Gazetted a Bill seeking to amend section 18 of the 1997 Constitution that abolished Death Penalty, unless if Violence or Toxic substance leads to the death of a person. Pretty reasonable, right? Nah, not according to Yaya Jammeh. They're seeking to amend that to fit the bill to send more Gambians to the Slaughter, 'as prescribed by law'.

Knowing how they'd unsuccessfully attempted this in 2010/11 to have included Drug related offences, Yaya and his lawmakers won't relent until they get their ways. Of course YOU know the Assembly would pass that bill and it will be put to Gambians in a referendum since it's an entrenched clause. YOU need not have any level of IQ to project that outcome. Asking an oppressed people to vote 'YES' or 'NO' is crazy.

What's dangerous and worrying is arming a reason-deprived, cocaine-head president who is so infatuated with killing and murder, that he knows how not to make his point across without threatening to kill. What's at risk here is, EVERY LIFE (Gambian or otherwise) in that Country. Jammeh's perceived enemies, economic crimes, false information charges, silly felony crimes could have you before a firing squad if they succeeded in amending this law. Yaya for some reason seems to always need blood, so he's running to Gambians to give him a passport to murder just so he quenches his thirst, knowing he's GUARANTEED To die a Violent Death. Otherwise, why would he insist on qualifying more people for capital punishment?

The National Assembly are ready to become Murderers without pulling a gun trigger. They're your fathers, mothers, uncles, Aunts, brothers and sisters. And friends. Each one reach one. Tell them to not agree to be complicit in ruining that country only because they want to prove political loyalty. They can't claim to not have been admonished that their pens and seats might end up killing them if they don't play right.

Peace To The Planet!

Shawm Monday!

Pata PJ

ELECTORAL LAWS: GAMBIAN LAWMAKERS TO KILL THEMSELVES

When Jerry Rawlings and his men executed officials (Generals) from an old administration that they'd toppled in a military coup in 1979, there was a serious outcry. Until today, Rawlings hasn't been apologetic. Most argued they had to set an example by ridding the nation of decadent souls who at the expense of the state and her people, (almost) ran Ghana to the ground. They 'had to kill to save a nation', Rawlings said.

In the Gambia Jammeh continues his barbaric ways, hellbent on creating fertile ground for ultra oppression, heartless subjugation and misappropriation of Gambian lives, and eventual chaos and civil unrest. He's never hidden that desire. Daily, he inches the nation towards just that.

The Elections Bill seeking to muscle the Opposition out of the democratic space with unreasonable financial demands is not only illegal but a dangerous attempt daring an already convulsing nation. How is it reasonable to change a presidential candidate nomination deposit of D10,000 to a whooping ONE MILLION FEE that's nonrefundable? How would it not be deliberate alienation to ask National Assembly candidates to fork out D100,000 fee for a position that pays far less than that annually? But the sheep in that house would not even debate this on merits. Instead, they'd me competing on who pleases President Jammeh the best.

Clearly, Yaya has the National Assembly, a legislature that's only been a weapon in enabling and reinforcing a Dictatorship and all vices that come with it including exploitation and wastefulness of lives and resources.

Y'all should talk to your people to NOT force the Gambians into doing a Rawlings post Jammeh. They are committing suicide and would have themselves to blame should that day come. When we're dismantling the establishments and shackles that Jammeh is instituting today, whoever has a hand in building this tyranny would have your fingers burnt. The buck in this case can't stop at Yaya. And it wouldn't be retribution.

Save Your Family Today, by Helping To Save Gambia instead of Yaya. Passing such a law would be mortgaging your lives and future to mentally deranged man in Yaya Jammeh.

Good Morning And Peace To The Planet.

Warmest Friday.

Pata PJ 

JAMMEH EMBARRASSES GAMBIA AT ECOWAS; BIDS TO BE LIFE PRESIDENT

When news leaked that ECOWAS were to table a proposal at their next sitting to explore the possibility of instituting presidential term limits for member states, I thought it was a sarcasm. I thought it was an expensive prank until I saw it on the regional body’s site. Then I thought it was a waste of time because a few African Leaders have been overly overdosed on power by an exorbitant quantity they could never have had a unanimous consensus on that item. But why would they be seeking unanimity in everything anyway? Why can't they do quotas or simple majority like they do with the election of a chair? I wish I do understand these politricks.

If anything I was astonished that only two (Gambia and Togo) of the 15 countries rejected the motion. Expectedly, the Gambia’s representative at the summit unashamedly refused to join the civilized community of progressives, to allow you and your children have a chance at managing the affairs of your country at the executive level. President Jammeh, opting to stay away perhaps to avoid the awkwardness and shame plaster on his face, delegated his 18-year long deputy to deliver his position on behalf of the 1.8 million Gambians. Vice President Isatou-Njie Saidy told them that her Boss, is on tour of the country and has an overwhelming endorsement and show of solidarity and love, they wish he stays forever. She referred them to the 1997 Constitution that has no limit to the number of terms Yaya chooses to serve. If that means until Twenty million Eighteen (2,000,018). Therefore, they are relaying that message from Gambians that they would never partake in any ‘illegal’ thing that decent people are putting in place to safeguard the peace and security of the region and member States. And that's on Bilai Walai Talai. Not exactly her words, but that was her message. She flipped them a middle finger!

When lieutenant Yaya Jammeh led a disgruntled gang of armed bandits on the Gambian taxpayers' payroll on a July Friday morning some 20 years ago to conspicuously oust a democratic government, they sort of magically threw acid powder in our eyes to blind us. They met little to no resistance from the many Gambians who were supposed to know better. I remember as a junior high teenager, overtaken by the euphoria and sight of drunken soldiers with guns speeding through the streets of Serekunda.

“We are Soldiers with a difference", they promised, adding they "are not here to perpetuate ourselves and will return to the barracks as soon as we have set things right. We are here for reasons that are peculiar only to Gambia, and what has happened in other parts of the continent, that does not concern us.” They gave all sorts of justifications mainly the three decade one-man rule, flamboyant lifestyles, rampant corruption, nepotism, misappropriation of national resources and underdevelopment. I guess that was the spell that let Gambians gave the would-be criminals the more-than-necessary benefit of the doubt. My cousin who had lived under military regimes in Nigeria and Ghana foretold that the Gambia shall never be the same again, but we didn’t know any better. Since then the rest as they say, is history. Rudeness, disrespect, one-man wealth accumulation, witch-hunting, arbitrary arrests, torture, forceful disappearances, extrajudicial executions are what the smiling coast has been turned to. A Dictatorship. That is the Gambia under Jammeh who clings on for two decades and counting, reneging on everything they had promised.

Therefore, the only positives that came out of this summit was election of Mr Macky Sall as the ECOWAS Chair (congratulations, sir), and the audacity or at least a progressive thought my African leaders to even consider relinquishing power at some point. That is a big positive by a people who until recently would rather die at the helm or groom their families to establish a fiefdom and a dynasty at the expense of their countries. Just look at Africa’s history since independence.

With the recent crop of Western educated Africans who lived in ‘developed nations’ where they tasted and inherited quite a degree of democratic ideals and have served in International Institutions of the highest integrity and reputation, there's hope. These people are giving hope that there is light at the end of the undemocratic, autocratic tunnel. The Macky Salls, Dramanh Mahamas, have been gravitating towards relatability with the African Youth with the importation of ideals that could best shape our continent's children and their future. Unfortunately, the Gambia’s President remains stuck with his premedivial ambition of a lifetime RULER until death snatches him.

Hearing a semi-literate, uncultured and detached president speak of his people as roaches, donkeys and enemies who'd have to have a vulture's patience to succeed him, is not only insulting but a declaration of intent to refuse any sort of power shift, peacefully. For a man who's had several ECOWAS court rulings against his government but refused to honor them, mounts stages to speak of the regional bodies and his colleagues in a derogatory and inconsiderable manner, were evidential that that summit item was never going to get a stamp of approval from him. It was never a secret that Yaya reserves no iota of respect for any authority. In his peanut size brain, the world isn't beyond the stretched walls of the Gambia, thus cares nothing about who scolds or reprimands him for what he'd done in Banjul with/to his subjects. He does not care about legitimacy in the eyes of the international community. For a man who believes he's omnipotent and infallible, it's best we come to terms with reality and explore more pragmatic ways to abort his government. It has to and can only be done in the Gambia, by Gambians. Through the Ballot, Barrel of the Gun or Popular Uprising. All three options must be equally considered.

For a continent ravaged by poverty and embroiled in unending civil wars and all sorts of instability for decades since Independence, the main cause of which has been political power struggle, you’d think our 2015 politicians would know and act better to not plunge it into further mess. Ask Burundi’s president Pierre Nkurunziza. You’d think they would play fair and stop toying with grenade pins by desisting from poking at the ingredients that comprise recipe for disaster. Instead, they continue to be greedy, irresponsible and murderous while they accumulate, syphon and pilfer public resources and funds as their constituents continue dwelling in abject poverty. Meet Gambia’s Yaya Jammeh.

Term limits serve an important purpose of strengthening democracy and ensure long-term stability by checking the concentration of political power. By that, it places a limit to two consecutive terms, prohibits a consecutive for re-election and/or complete prohibition of re-election. In the case of the Gambia and most African states, the demand for reform has been limited to two terms which should not have been a huge ask. It would be a primary conflict mitigating instrument. It curtails the power of incumbency and holds them accountable to their people and think twice about their actions knowing they’d soon be out of power. The longer a president holds power, the more the delineation between the state and the ruling party becomes blurred. Unlimited term limits abrades the balance of power and weakens the authority of sovereign legislatures and judiciaries and competitive political parties. That’s exactly what begets our present day predicament in Banjul. Because we lack effective checks and balances, power has been concentrated in one man, rendering all institutions – political, social, civil – dead or ineffective. Jammeh is the juror, judge and executioner.

WHY SHOULD JAMMEH be interested in term limits, knowing he is not interested in anything that would diminish is powers and weakens his grip? Of everything mentioned above, Yaya is not interested in any. He has no incentive to willingly relinquish power not only because he loves the presidency but he is very much cognizant of the crimes he’d committed in the time that he’s been at number One Marena Parade, his absolute wastefulness of our resources that Gambians would neither forgive not forget. So he resorts to daringly inviting to be killed or at least chased out of his misery. And we can do that. Individually, we are right to be afraid and scared buy collectively, we could pull his cards and expose him for the punk, corny, fraud, scary little man that he is.

Let each reach and teach one. Information-starved Gambians should be told that their president embarrassed them before his peers, by refusing to edge towards giving peace a chance. That he's told the whole world that he has no desire to free Gambians from the 20 year oppression and terror, even after his colleagues offered him an escape route. He's no longer keeping it a secret that wants to choose when to leave and would watch the country go down the drain or in flames before he vacates. We'd have to do something. If we can't pick up sticks and guns, we have our votes come 2016.

Good Morning And Peace To The Planet.

Pata PJ

JAMMEH INSULTING AND DISCRIMINATING AGAINST MANDINKAS ISNT NEW. THEY LET IT!

There are three things among others that I will never be embarrassed or apologetic for - My FAITH. MY RACE. MY TRIBE. These composed my identity and I can't run away from. To disparage me by attacking them amounts to disrespecting and insulting my being. When that happens, I cannot reserve any degree of love or respect for you. It does not make me a Bigot, a Racist or Tribalist. Your identity is Your Pride. I'm not going to be wearing it around my neck to hate, love, and embrace or discriminate. When that happens that's when it becomes abhorrent and dangerous. Allah acknowledges, respects our (distinct) identities - Tribes and Nations in the Quran, and it was not for nothing.

‘O mankind! We created you from a single (pair) of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that ye may know each other (not that ye may despise (each other). Verily the most honoured of you in the sight of Allah is (he who is) the most righteous of you. And Allah has full knowledge and is well acquainted (with all things).’ – Quran Surah 49:13

While we're worried about President Jammeh and his government looting and misappropriating our state resources, abusing and exiling us, we tend to dismiss his public inflammatory rhetoric as 'insanity' and Jammeh rants. In doing so we are giving him the green card to continue this dangerous path.

What we may be involuntarily doing is fanning his sadistic and dangerous fire by ignoring his incendiary and deliberate tribal diatribes that could plunge the little Gambia into ethnic and civil chaos. From recent history, we've seen how ethic violence in Bosnia, Rwanda and Burundi could lead to an annihilation of a whole ethnicity and their identities, fueled by idiots like Yaya with a platform. Fortunately for us, thus far Jammeh is the only Gambian propagating tribal hatred and discord.

I'd not have any qualms with Yaya Jammeh the person having the sentiments he has towards Mandinkas. That is his prerogative. What troubles and disgusts me is Yaya Jammeh the president of the Gambia's incessant obsession with vile remarks, insults and threats towards a particular group of people because of their ethnicity any time he is accorded the opportunity. As a matter of fact, Yaya's discomfort and resulting vitriol towards the Mandinkas has gone beyond verbal pronouncements to become executive and government policy where they get targeted, discriminated and marginalized. For an elected president to comfortably state or make it a policy that he prefers one particular tribe to another is not only discriminating but troubling, despite swearing to serve and execute his duties without fear or favor, affection or ill-will.

For far too long, we have avoided this conversation in the mainstream discourses for fear of being labeled tribalist. It makes us uncomfortable. For 20 years, we've watched Jammeh say the most disrespectful things on TV and political platforms about a particular tribe and we passingly condemned or laughed them off. Habitually, he'd go to a predominantly Mandinka communities with the likes of Yankuba Touray and the seyfos warning and threatening them against tribal politics and division, setting the stage for Yaya to masturbate rubbish while our parents shamefully grin. He'd wag his fingers, raise his voice at them and call them, their kids unpatriotic souls and enemies of the country. What a disingenuous lie! Objective is clear and the mission defined. This nigga is a divisive, hateful being. What would my parents and I gain in hating the Gambia? Why would I set the one place I call home ablaze?

'WHO TAUGHT YOU TO HATE YOURSELF?' Malcolm X asked his people. Well let's ask ourselves the same question. Could you imagine a little white boy walking around in a black neighborhood screaming "NIGGER!'? Or a black boy in a Klan town singing 'Cracker Cracker!’ So in as much as I want to squeeze the living soul out of Jammeh, I have to be realistic that the Mandinkas made him this comfortable to even have the audacity. If I am comfortable enough to tell your derogatory things about your family, I must have sensed how you feel about your own. I cannot respect a man who pisses on his people just so he could fit in.

Since 1994 there has never been a shortage of Mandinkas used by Jammeh against their own. From Almamo Manneh, Baba Jobe, Tabora Manneh, Yankuba Touray, Kaba Bajo, Momodou Sabally, all would jump at the chance to berate their own parents and their identity just to be close to the president. But good old Yaya ends up destroying them one by one and move to the next.  Ndey Tapha Sosseh aptly argued this in her piece a couple of years ago. Yaya will continue to insult us because WE let him. We insult ourselves by running and fighting over his crumbs.

So Who Taught Us to Hate Ourselves? Yaya Jammeh. He is not stupid. Jammeh has succeeded in beating the esteem out of us with the help of shameless, selfish and embarrassing Mandinkas to an extent that we are afraid and embarrassed to identify ourselves as Mandinkas. The Gambian Mandinka is the only kind you'd ask 'where are you from?' and he responds with 'I was born in Jarra BUT I went to school in Kanifing'. We're the only ones you'd ask 'What are you?' and we tell you 'My mom and dad are Mandinkas but my aunt's co-wife is a Hausa'. God forbid you mistakenly take them for a UDP sympathizer. They'd swear that they'd detonate a grenade at a UDP rally. Yaya Jammeh has succeeded in emasculating us. He's succeeded with very little efforts, to have us shun our identity and embarrassed to speak or admit being a Mandinka in public much more before him. He understands the psychological domination, and then dangles a position before these greedy, low self-esteem idiots and they drown each other in a gas tank just to please him. Gathers and calls them filth and scumbags, and they applaud. It is a shame!

I dislike President Jammeh NOT because he is a Jola or he's from Foni. And will not follow that with the qualifying statement that ‘I am not tribalist because my friends are Jolas’. I have never seen the need why people use that defensive line when they do not hold such feeling. I do not support him because I do not agree with the way he runs the affairs our country. This has nothing to do with his tribe. I will not support him because he has become more than everything that he claimed was wrong with the first republic. I cannot be voting or remotely working with an elected president who has no respect for his nationals. In a conscious democracy, Yaya would never utter such slurs towards a demography that has numbers on their side knowing that would cost him. It wouldn't happen. So I am not asking anybody to vote against Yaya on tribal lines, but I will unapologetically ask that you turn your backs on a man who shares nothing in common with you and does not bat an eye to disrespect you in your face. This is not just for the Mandinkas but anybody who respects decency and frowns on the hatred propagated by Jammeh. Today he has his arsenal on the Mandinkas, tomorrow could be you. Politics is an interest game. You'd be foolish to continue voting for a known tribalist and imbecile SOB.He can get raped by a gang of apes and contact Ebola for all I know. This nigga disgusts me!

Pata PJ