BANJUL IS IMPORTANT, NATIONWIDE IS STRATEGIC

Already, many have observed that a change in strategy in the defiance against the entrenched tyranny in Banjul is necessary.

The pour of solidarity by our people, trekking to and from Banjul against all state obstacles is commendable. It should continue but sustaining it might be tougher as the constant and unnecessary adjournments continue. It might be a deliberate ploy to stretch our resources and let our momentum wade.

Attending court sittings and flooding Banjul is great but we can do more. Let's mobilize and stretch the state and security's resources. Not just on the days the accused are to appear in court, this outing and defiance SHOULD be taken nationwide, especially in and across the country's business heart - KMC, Serekunda to be specific.

On the days that the state expects people out, let people show them they decide when to come out. Stage countless hours of sit-ins, marches and stay-aways on days of your choosing to make mobility and smooth functioning governance HARD. ALL without sticks and stones. Our voices with KALAMAA/MBAATU raised in the air are enough. It is working. The sight of banners and other apparel with 'END DICTATORSHIP NOW', 'WE WANT DEMOCRACY', same slogans that landed Dr. Janneh in prison, speaks volumes.

Most importantly, in the absence of strong political leadership and vibrant civil society groups, organize within yourselves to birth and enable an emergence of young, level-headed leaders. We cannot leave it to poor, illiterate, crying women. Make it regional. Banjul, Serekunda, Brikama, Soma, Basse. This would help in mass mobilization and efficient coordination. Whatever it is, decentralization of defiance efforts to broader and effective handicap of the state machinery would break their spine.

Sustaining this momentum is key. Strategy is a necessity.

Pata PJ.