Usually, Africans talk high of or celebrate their most valuable, resourceful after their demise. Or at least, when they're in no position to make practical impact. Banka Manneh has been crying 'let's celebrate our own whilst they're here'. That's what's it's been in Lawyer Darboe's case. And this, perhaps, is not our fault. That's the culture and mindset we have as a people.
Those who know Ousainou Darboe will tell you that his humility has been his blessing but mainly his curse. He's not been talking about himself or his family. The State's recent persecution of Darboe and scores of innocent people, following the murder of an unarmed Gambian Mr Solo Sandeng, accords us the opportunity to have a peek in to his persons, his life and his family.
From his quiet, not well-known Children to his two pillars in Aunty Mai Ndure and Aunty Sally Darboe, we are beginning to understand and perhaps appreciate the fortitude and resilience of Darboe. However, the credit isn't ALL his. These women around him molded him. Clearly, with these women by your side, any man is bound to be successful, grounded and selfless.
#SELFLESS? Sure! Read Darboe's allocution after sentencing, again. He'd mentioned Mandinka once, UDP Three times and the Gambia/Gambians 25 times. His address was centered on him, his dedication and commitment to public/national service and freedom of Gambia. He's been attempting to do the latter through the UDP but the mission and focus have been the GAMBIA. There is hope. And that hope is been hastened with the help of women. Mrs Tambajang, the Fatoumatta Jawaras, Nogoi Njies AND the Mrs Ousainou Darboes. These women are resources. Sooner than later, we'll get there.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MR DARBOE.
Pata PJ
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