It is no secret that our (political) salvation lies in our ability to present a single candidate against the incumbent. Who and How best that is done, I'd trust the opposition parties map that out. Party-led, Independent, Other.
We've seen new rays of hope with the emergence of an Independent Candidate in Dr Touray, gathering moss both in Gambia and in the diaspora. So is the injection of Youth and heart in UDP's Adama Barrow and Mama Kandeh, and the first-time candidate but veteran politician in PDOIS's Halifa Sallah heightening excitement in their respective parties. And the rest of the parties, respectfully acknowledged.
I have no issues with any of these Candidates selling themselves and agenda to Gambians. However, central to not only their messages but projections too, MUST BE having all these parties TOGETHER.
My observation of the Independent Candidate Touray's moves is that she is aware that her success is 100% dependent on the support and backing of the registered, established opposition parties, and that is why her calls have been urging them to 'come JOIN' her. It's encouraging she'd met these parties as she rolls out her initial phase.
I'd ADVICE tho, that she shifts or at least adjusts strategy, to sell and present a more promising, accommodating and realistic position which is to 90% pursue UNIFICATION and 10% selling self and programs. The wisdom in that is an absolute focus on her and her programs would defeat the essence of what she's come to do (achieve consensus that these parties haven't been able to in 2 decades) and continues, worsens impasse caused by the party interest.
FACT is Dr Touray's biggest appeal is her NON PARTY AFFILIATION (Independence) but her manifesto and how she intends to lead the next Republic isn't much different from the rest of the parties (especially PDOIS' Agenda 2016 and UDP's 2016 Election proposal). Therefore, the programs are not what's going to make or break the deal for the Parties she seeks to rally behind her. Assuring them that she's not wanting them to leave their parties isn't enough. She needs to show and prove to them that she wants them to 'COME TOGETHER' and Not come 'JOIN ME' by sitting them around the table for all to find a common position from their respective proposals. And if they're to make that compromise, my understanding is her programs (most) would take a backseat to COALITION'S and the MoU that comes out of any agreements.
Good thing is ALL understand the need for a Unity Candidate. So I'd like to think a couple of weeks consultation and dialogue should be enough to agree in Principle, and trashing out the details wouldn't be as hard. My faith in these leaders is unwavering. I trust them to get it right this year.
******* The End ********
Pata PJ
Sept 10, 2016
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