Discuss Solving Hunger, Ill-Governance, Poverty…

Ok guys! Gambiano wants us to talk about important issues and not homosexuality.

By Gambiano

When you happily sport your new pair of shoes in the Streets of Serrekunda, Brikama, Basse, etc., only to painfully wash off the dust or mud it courts, is it the gay topic that charges at your thoughts that moment? When your cute, darling little girl emaciates on her RVTH bed, clearly waiting for her appointment with infant mortality, is it the gay discourse that charges at your thoughts that moment? When you seriously understand that, perhaps, malnutrition has been patronizing that child’s poor health, charioting her to a young grave, is it the gay discourse that charges at your thoughts that hour?

When you, with healthy eyes and intelligent reasoning tour the Serrekunda Market and interact with that local woman spreading a thin layer of fabric upon which lie symmetrical rows of fish, vegetables, palm oil, etc., all under the disrespect of the scorching heat and sad subsistence, is it the gay topic that invades your thoughts that instance? And when that woman, whose Bakary or Lamin disappeared at Jammeh’s instructions directly or indirectly, tells you that she barely makes $10 for all that patience in the sun with flies, shouts, and sometimes quarrels, is it the gay topic that sprints to your mind that moment?

When you visit a village as close to Banjul as is Kiti in the Western Division and see a pregnant woman in labor groaning not amidst the sirens of an ambulance, but the gallops of a donkey with visible ribs and wounds, yet unleashing its ATP to pull that cart while you wonder whether your eyes are moist for the thin donkey, the bare-footed hungry child driving it, or the laboring woman—is it the gay topic that comes to mind that minute?

Or when you decide to bask in the fresh breeze and sunny weather only to sadden your sight with a funeral procession of two different coffins in Latrikunda—coffins on shoulders of wailing youths for two corporeal frames who died young of malaria or some curable homeostatic imbalance that could have been reduced to a joke with a Birmingham or Chicago diagnosis; is it the gay topic that rushes to your senses that moment?

O ye that acquire pompous academics and desirous of vainglory, exult not at that which only arms you with words, and not the action that kills poverty or brings forth economic solvency. Be mindful of credentials that erect not abodes of comfort, but shrines of sententious bickering. And ye with chaste knowledge, yet with demeanor wisely carried, please espouse that which engenders topics of change—a change that solves our muddy or dusty streets, a growth that transforms that bare-footed young donkey-driver’s cart into a 21^st Century ambulance of choice, an accretion that reaches the tri-stone primeval kitchen stove as to replace it with a modern cooker for our well-craved ‘Benechin’, tender-beef ‘Domoda, or ‘Palaasas’ of glee.

And when you jet back to Washington, shed all feathers of ephemeral poverty at the end of the holiday and start eating meals of choice, dishes of customizable hours at your call, and feel dwellings both electric and electronically-savvy—don’t you entertain the prospects of a close, if not perfectly similar, boon of providence for The Gambia? I bet you do—unless if you have five heads with horns!

On Gambia’s national scale of preference, the gay topic is too caudal to our more serious indices. Even if Jammeh leaves tonight, we still have a long way to go—and more “Miles to go before (we) sleep….And miles to go before (we) sleep” (Frost: Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening). Jammeh knows very well the gay topic is far from Gambia’s priorities. But let’s not use his adamantine propensity as a stage to settle personal scores.

DIDA HALAKI

Dida, wollaahi I admire your wont. I wish I can learn under your resourceful tuition. But my liege, Gambia cries for questions the answers to which will pique prosperity’s gaze. And of all such questions, the gay topic can seldom be paramount when a can of milk costs D18 in 2013 when it was D5 in 2002. I’ll let you handle that CPI basket!

Each time I see your contributions to or about Gambia, it fuels my patriotism. Only a denier will argue that you don’t like Gambia or living there. And only those who don’t understand western civilization from Paleolithic ages to present will bite the bait colleges and universities strategically put out. But please let our scribe’s direct pens to perennial issues.

You’ve lived in Gambia before I even knew two-plus-two! Doesn’t Africa’s poverty, contrasted with Wall Street’s affluence make you think, “Well, if we can’t invent marvels and sway the globe, at least we should chase away hunger or solve Nawec’s power-cuts”? As I type these, someone in Brikama is sleeping without power—and certainly, another without dinner in Barra! And yet, we want to spend precious time on gay-marriages?

KALIL

I wish I can set my back against a tree and savor the syntax you commend your sentences to. Like Dida, your language plays a rare music no reverence inspired from academia can fully do justice to. But Gambia weeps for your therapy—one that guarantees a proud economy; one that corners qualitative malnutrition to harmless bearing and ill-governance to history’s janitors. See, Western interlocutors use the gay topic for political escapism.

They can’t look into the eyes of their electorates and tell them how banks fetter them with credit card debt without losing the next election. At the expense of such issues seminal to a happier citizenry, they insert well-calculated trivia to keep the masses away from thinking, let alone asking serious questions. Let not Yahya Jammeh do the same to us!

I beg, with fervor, your kind considerations to halt this conversation Gambia hardly needs. Our people are vanishing, dying, or taking turns at Mile II. If you see Dida as a Jammeh votary, you’ll be more inspired to settle scores with him. But if you refuse falling into that trap irrespective of whims or perceptions, you’ll forget this and think of how to change Gambia.

PRESS: What’s your take on gay marriages?

STUPID AFRICAN: Blah! Blah! Blah! Blah! Blah! Blah! Blah!

INTELLIGENT AFRICAN: Ask or help me solve hunger first! I want to spend my precious time on things seriously troubling my brethren. When those are fixed, then ask me about gays and lesbians!

Gambiano821@gmail.com

Kibaaro Editor: Sulayman Jeng

Dictator Jammeh

YAHYA AJJ JAMMEH

PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE GAMBIA

STATE HOUSE

BANJUL

THE GAMBIA

WEST AFRICA

28^TH FEBRUARY 2014

Your Excellency,

As I write you this letter knowing there is nothing satisfying than being faithful to one’s personal truth, I cannot help but wonder if you ever alert yourself to how history will project you after you are gone or better still few years down the line when you look back at the things you could have done or said differently. One thing is certain though; you are committing so much atrocities and political blunders that your achievements are barely noticeable. The Wolof opined: Sa gay mien mu nge hayne sa domi ndeye molako wah Mr President.

A leader avails and alerts himself to his people’s needs and aspirations. He does not go to bed with a full stomach knowing most of his people are sleeping empty bellies. He does not sleep knowing his people have to constantly look over their shoulders for fear of being unlawfully arrested, detained and intimidated by state security apparatus. Your Excellency, a true leader is humble. Oh; less I forget Mr President please allow me to share with you a narration of one of our very own Senegambia legend Njajang Njai.

Njajang Njai, the great Wolof legendary philosopher, was celebrated within the Wolof Empire for his mesmerizing, rich, and informative truisms. It was narrated that the news of his daughter’s wedding spread like bush fires well beyond the four walls of the Wolof Empire. Anyone that heard the news swore not to miss the wedding. Even his sworn enemies attested to his oratory. He usually left his audience hanging onto his every word. As a result, it was generally concluded since he fascinated his audiences even on occasions in which he was a mere invitee, he will excite all with his newest epigrams on his daughter’s special day. On the D-day, his compound overflew with expectant crowd. When all the respectable village elders took their seats, and the bride sat on a mat in the middle of the anxious crowd, Njajang Njai emerged majestically from his room. A deafening silence descended on the keen spectators as he took his seat among the elders. After what seemed a never ending wait, he cleared his throat and suddenly stood up, like someone stung by a scorpion; he called his daughter’s name thrice and said: “Mbahana” (hat) then he walked off to his room. A bustling murmur started gyrating amongst the dumbfounded crowd. Some were disappointed while others continued to wait for his re-emergence. Confusion engulfed the crowd. Everyone was expecting Njajang Njai to display his finest oratory particularly on his daughter’s wedding day. For him just to come out and tell his daughter Mbahana, which translates a hat, amounts to the worst form of betrayal. The crowd started to disperse as they thought that was it. Some began to suggest that he has lost it. He came out wearing a cheeky smile and began: “I know most of you were expecting me to give a lengthy speech. But I have never given a more appropriate speech than today. If my daughter understood what I told her and acted upon it, she will live happily with both her husband and in-laws. The hat is simple, easy and light. That is why the head carries it without feeling its weight or discomfort. What more can I say to my daughter? He asked”. Two pertinent lessons can be drawn from the above Mr President: humility and wisdom.

Your Excellency, humility and wisdom are two essential vitamins that are deficient in your qualities. Perhaps, you are thinking how I can substantiate my claim. Well, let me begin by drawing your attention to your recent speech marking the Gambia’s 49^th national day. The drama you showed as many expected demonstrated your complete lack of humility and wisdom. The moment you ascended the podium, your bloated ego took charge. You behaved as if you were immortal. Ranting and issuing nerve-racking threats thinking in your deluded head yes I will tell them my peace of mind. But guess what Mr President; you only ended beating yourself up with unspent anger locked in your icy heart.

Wisdom is the ability to distinguish between wrong and right and been conscious of the minute detail of what goes around you. It guard you from not only publicly showcasing your foolishness but also keeping your integrity in tack. Sometimes, one has to step outside your comfort zone, Mr President, to walk into the real world and seize the moment. True, we all know you have stayed too long down river and your coming up right will usher in turbulent waves. However, that should not stop you from doing the right thing: handing over power and calling for an early election. God is already teaching you a lesson for being arrogant, ruthless and a heartless leader by giving you bowel cancer. How disgraceful will it be when you are found dead in your own pool of poo?

Make peace with God and Gambians before it is too late Mr President. While counting on you living the dream, please beware: niit dafa neuroo lumoi ouyoo.

Yours in the service of the Gambia,

Sulayman Jeng, UK

The King of Kora, Jaliba Kuyateh joins the Wularamang Kachaa Community as an ambassador 

Jaliba’s mentor & Wularamang Kumandang – Kebba Landing Sonko 

The community that brings the popular radio program on Kibaaro Radio called the Wularamang Kachaa (the evening chatshow) at the Bantabato (common place of meeting) have nominated Gambian Kora maestro Jaliba Kuyateh as their African Ambassador.

Jaliba Kuyateh, who appeared on the program as a guest on Wednesday 26 February 2014, aroused much nostalgia from the community members, who were very excited to have the King of Kora (King of the 21 string – a local Mandinka traditional instrument.) on the program.  The emotionally overwhelmed Mr Kuyateh, shared his gratitude and appreciation to the community for inviting him to the bantabato, where discussions are centred on tradition and customary issues, as well as exploring and sharing knowledge about the local languages.

The Wularamang Community, which Kibaaro News assist in broadcasting their Bantabato Kachaa through the Kibaaro Radio, owns the program, according to the Kibaaro News General Manager, Bamba Serigne Mass. Therefore he asserted that the community members have no affiliation with Kibaaro News’ editorial contents and contents of the radio’s other programs.

The Kibaaro Radio Manager Pa Modou Bojang, who also presents the program on Kibaaro Radio explained that the Wularamang community is a virtual replicate of a typical Gambian community. It has an Alkalo (village chief), Imam (religious leader), Seyfo (District Chief) and a Kumandango (Divisional Commissioner). He said the community also has a professor and ambassadors, which Jaliba is now one of.

On his part, the coordinator of the Community, Mr Lamin Jassey emphasized the importance of the Wularamang Katchaa program to Gambians in the diaspora. He explained that the program is an educative program, which explores, inform, educate and preserve the fading Gambian cultures, customs and traditions. He explained that the program will benefit “our children a lot, especially those of us, who have children in the diaspora”. He reiterates the importance of excluding politics and religion from the program, in order to attract, encourage and benefit all.

He explained the importance of having Jaliba Kuyateh as an ambassador for the program. He explained that all that Jaliba Kuyateh had been doing over the years is to enhance our traditions and cultures through his music. “Therefore having him as an ambassador to the program is a huge bonus for the aims of the program, which is to enhance the flourishing of our traditions, customs and culture through communal discourse”. Mr Jassey further confirmed that Jaliba Kuyateh has accepted his nomination, “which is a brilliant news for the community”.

During his last appearance on the program, Jaliba expressed his joy and gratitude of being invited to the program, which has Kebba Landing Sonko, who thought him a lot when he was growing up, as its Kumandang. He further expressed his gratitude to the community for their initiative. He confirmed that, he left the profession of teaching in the early 1990s, in order to assist the enhancement of his traditions, customs and cultures to flourish, which he continues to strife for. He expressed his excitement that the program is aimed at the same goal.

Coordinator of the Wularamang Kachaa – Lamin Jassey

The key members of the Wularamang community are: Mr Lamin Jassey, the coordinator, Mr Kebba Landing Sonko, the Kumandango of the Community; Mr Ebrima Darboe, the Seyfo of the Community, Imam Seedy Ali Janneh, the Imam of the community, Mr Pa Modou Bojang, as the Alkalo of the community, Solicitor Lamin L Darboe, practicing Lawyer in the United Kingdom, as the community legal adviser, Mr Lang Conteh, the Professor of the community, Mr Karamo Jammeh, Mandinka Language Expert, Mr Doudou Sanyang, Mr Ebrima O Ceesay and now Mr Jaliba Kuyateh as ambassadors of the program.

Jaliba Kuyateh is the son of Kebba Sunti Kuyateh (also a Kora player) and Bakoto Mbye. He began playing the 21-strings instrument in his early life at a tender age of five.

Although he showed talent on the instrument, he stopped playing after two years in order to commence his primary school education. He returned to playing the Kora in 1977, while he was at the Gambia College pursuing a Teachers Training course at the College.

After his graduation he was assigned to teach mathematics at Brikama Primary School. In 1979 he formed his traditional band called Jaliba & Group. The group soon attracted attention with songs like “Tesito Be Gambia ” and “Kaira Silo Mang jang fa” (the road to peace is never too long).

While he continued to play with his band, Kuyateh began working with the Gambia’s Ministry of Education, youth, sports, and culture in 1991.

Kuyateh’s love for music proved irresistible. Within a year, he voluntarily retired from his government job and turned his full-time attention to music. With only two members of his band agreeing to continue working with him, Kuyateh formed the Kumareh Band.

The group’s success came quickly. In addition to touring France in 1993 and Spain, Kuyateh & the Kumareh Band released their debut album, “Radio Kantang”, in 1993. The album sold more than 15,000 copies. Two albums, “Dajikah” and “Tissoli” (Sneeze), followed in 1994. Following the release of their fourth album, Hera “Banku”, in 1995, Kuyateh & the Kumareh Band toured the US releasing another album entitled “Live in America”.

In 1996, the album, “Gambia Third Day” was released. 1997 was a concert year for the band. They were engaged in chains of concerts and the next album entitled “Njai Kunda” came in 1998. On the 3rd of May, 1999, he released his 8th album entitled “Fankanta” into the music market.

In February 2002 he toured the US including the One World Theatre Austin, Texas. Other albums by Jaliba Kuyateh followed culminating in Sosolaso and Sabarla released in 2009.

On the 4th July 2007, Jaliba was awarded a certificate of recognition from the Brufut Marathon Run Association (BMRA) for his outstanding contribution in promoting Gambia culture through music Kora.

OJ, A Gambian political heavy weight

Desperate Jammeh speaking to the press

In a rather dramatic and tensed atmosphere, President Jammeh addressed the Gambian press on his return from Nigeria at the Banjul International Airport during which he issued a stern warning to Gambians that taking to the streets of Banjul in the guise of democracy to effect a political change will be crushed ruthlessly.

A paled and agitated looking Jammeh asserted:” You are free to express your opinion as a good citizen on whatever you want but the moment you chose to cross the boundary and take to the streets or set anything on fire that is rebellion and I will deal with you accordingly.”

Like any other dictator, Jammeh sets the game and the rules. According to him, anyone yarning for a political change must hold the peace until 2016 election and form a political party instead of resorting to the streets. “This type of nonsense such as the Arab spring type of revolution in the name of freedom will not be accepted in the Gambia under my watch. And any gangster or homeless who attempts to stage it will be dealt with mercilessly”, he concluded fumingly.

It would be recalled the Mr Omar Jallow fondly known as OJ, a PPP stalwart and former Minister of Agriculture under the deposed Jawara regime granted the Freedom Radio and newspaper a recent interview. He told Pa Nderry Mbai that he is ready to spearhead a peaceful demonstration in the streets of Banjul to tell Despot and serial murderer Jammeh that enough is enough. Mr Jallow who is currently on a visit in the United Kingdom told Mr Mbai-the media heavy weight: “Precedence must be set to send a strong message to Yahya Jammeh that the Gambia is a nation of one people, one family and one God.”

“President Jammeh’s message is directed at the fearless political stalwart, OJ, to deflate his plan to stage a peaceful demonstration which he told the Freedom Newspaper”, an impeccable source informed Kibaaro. President Jammeh is shitting himself as we go to press with fear of an impending mass demonstration in Banjul. Another source within his Security Council confided in Kibaaro that the security agents are taking OJ’s intent to demonstrate very seriously. “If OJ goes ahead with the demonstration that would be the end of President Jammeh and his regime. Oga is scared and restless. I really feel sorry for him”, he added.

Speaking to some Gambians who heard the President’s threat to quash any form of demonstration about their reactions, many confirmed that they are not moved by his verbose rhetoric. One was so furious she demanded; “How dare Jammeh to shun revolution when he came to power via it? Perhaps he forgot what goes around comes around”.

President Jammeh who ousted a democratically elected Jawara regime in a military coup in 22^nd July 1994 continued to rule the Gambia with an iron fist. He continually disregards Gambia’s constitution and her international obligations even in the face of unprecedented global spotlight. Gambians live in constant fear of unlawful arrests, detention and torture under his administration.

Changing Gambian Passport

Pa Mboob, An Immigration Chief

Senior immigration official and a highly placed heavy weight of the Jammeh inner circle have confirmed the new biometric agreement between Gambia Immigration Department and Africard Company, a Lebanese business company in the Gambia.

The new passport is priced at D3500 Gambian dalasi equivalent to US $100 as opposed to the previous cost of D1000 Gambian dalasi and will last for five year period. “This is absolute madness”, one of the officials lamented as anger and frustration marred his face. “Can you believe it? 250% increment on the previous price of a passport that only last for five years!” he further asked.

It would be recalled that in 2013 the dodgy Jammeh government hinted that Gambia will go in for a new biometric passport to curb the forgery and other boring intermittent changes since it damages quickly due to its poor quality. However, what the Jammeh regime failed to inform Gambians was their passports would now be produced and issued by foreigners whose credibility remains questionable. “The new deal will commence in April 2014 and their office is already located in Banjul with new modern technology equipment”, the immigration official informed Kibaaro.

“The passport’s critical information is both printed on the data page of the passport and stored in the chip. Public Key Infrastructure is used to authenticate the data stored electronically in the passport chip making it expensive and difficult to forge when all security mechanisms are fully and correctly implemented,” added a Jammeh trustee.

“The new initiative will fully discourage forgery of documents in the country. The chip will make it very hard and expensive for the criminals to tamper it any more. We encountered series of problems and forgeries not only in passport but also National Identity card too.  So both these two documents will now be biometric.  The National ID and Driving License have been in the biometric system for two years now and it have drastically reduced the forgery, this is why the government opted for going in for biometric passport” chipped in a senior Police Officer.

Despite the assurance from the Police Force that the new biometric will curb forgery of the document, they fall short in confirming that the new passport will not end up in the wrong hands. Many Gambians when contacted with the issue expressed fear and dissatisfaction of their passports managed by foreigners without any Gambian immigration official supervision. Others believe it is just a matter of time before the new passport would be sold in the streets of Banjul.

Gambian Religious Leaders meeting with Gamcotrap

The global campaign to eradicate female genital mutilation “FGM” has been going on for three decades and it is all geared towards raising awareness about the harmful effects and practice on innocent girls and women.

In the Gambia despite all the conventions signed and policies in place to protect women and girl-children, the debate has been dominated by misconceptions about FGM and Religion, resulting to communities subjecting their children to FGM. However, over the years through awareness creation, 900 communities and 128 circumcisers have been empowered to protect girls from this harmful traditional practice which affects the sexual and reproductive health and rights of women and girls as well as undermines the dignity of women. Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a violation of human rights and a form of violence against women and girls.

The convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women (CEDAW) and the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) called on state parties to eliminate such a harmful traditional practices. The African Union Protocol on the Rights of Women in Africa, explicitly calls on states to prohibit and condemn FGM through awareness creation and enacting of laws in order to eliminate the practice. The Gambia has ratified these treaties over the years, members of relevant ministries, parliamentarians and civil society actors have dedicated attention to discussions on measures to be undertaken to fulfil these obligations. “The advocacy and social mobilisation of the population has been very effective and we are seeing phenomenal changes in perceptions and families protecting their children against such practices” the released stated.

The released indicates that effective national legislation is a vital component of efforts to accelerate the elimination of FGM. The enactment and implementation of legislation against FGM demonstrates a formal, explicit and lasting commitment by public authorities to turning the tide of social norms that perpetuate the practice and are detrimental to women and girls.  Furthermore, the law can also provide the legal tools to legitimise and facilitate the work of anti-FGM activists and women’s right groups, and to protect women and girls willing to challenge the social convention by refusing to undergo FGM.  Conversely, an absence of legislation contributes to the perception of FGM as “acceptable” and further exposes girls and women to the high risk of FGM weakens the legitimacy and impact of government’s policies.

It is observed that achieving substantive equality for the girl-child and creating a protective environment with regards to certain HTPs and shrouded in religious misconceptions making the debate difficult for anti-FGM advocates. FGM has been wrongly associated with Islam in the Gambia and this misconception is strongly held by some religious scholars who have used their privilege positions to influence the debate negatively and sending the wrong signals that undermines government efforts. The legislators hide behind these misconceptions reneging their constitutional responsibility to women in the Gambia. In the light of the great progress registered over the years it is always a suggestion from communities that GAMCOTRAP should invite other Muslim countries to share their knowledge on FGM and Islam.

To further these developments, Save The Children and the Gambia Committee on Traditional Practices Affecting the Health of Women and Children (GAMCOTRAP) will organize a two day National Dialogue Workshop from the 27-28 February 2014 bringing together religious scholars and academics from Mauritania, Senegal and La Guinea to The Gambia.

At the national level,  representatives of Imams and Religious Scholars from different regions, The supreme Islam Council, Chiefs, women and youth leaders, relevant government ministries and the coalition of NGOs against FGM to engage in dialogue regarding the religious perspectives on FGM and Islam. The workshop on knowledge-sharing is intended to address misconceptions about Islam and FGM and the need to facilitate for enactment of national legislation, and to encourage wider knowledge sharing and discussions among religious scholars and all the relevant stakeholders.

The Gambia has ratified almost all the international and regional conventions/instruments regarding women and children’s rights thus showing the political will and commitment to advance the strategic interest and human rights of women and girl-children.

Thus the environment is positive for reform of laws or enactment of new laws to protect women and girl-children from harmful traditional practices that are inimical to their health and wellbeing. Currently the Children’s Act 2005 and other new laws promoting women’s rights are in place but do not specifically prohibit FGM because of the lack of a clear religious position on FGM, thus allowing innocent girls and women to be abused in the name of culture and religion.

It is expected that after a constructive debate, and sensitisation on the effects of FGM on women and children’s sexual and reproductive health rights, religious leaders will come to consensus that FGM is not a religious obligation, government will pass a specific law to protect girls from FGM and empower more people to protect girls.

Founded in 1984, The Gambia Committee on Traditional Practices Affecting the Health of Women and Children (GAMCOTRAP) is one of the leading Women’s Rights NGOs in The Gambia, focusing its work on the rights of women and children with a particular campaign against harmful traditional practices affecting the health of women and children, especially FGM and child marriage.  Among the activities undertaken has been the organisation of training workshops on the rights of the child and on sexual and reproductive health for the policy makers, different target groups as well as other advocacy aimed at the full ratification of the various relevant international human rights treaties and their subsequent implementation. The organisation has engaged in grassroots activism to end HTP in particular FGM.

Save the Children (SC) Female Genital Mutilation Program works towards a political, legal and social environment that challenges attitudes and behaviours on FGM and promotes its elimination, in the context of the promotion and protection of the rights of children. Over the years, SC has supported local initiatives all over the world and organised numerous conferences, seminars and workshops aimed at raising awareness and stimulating political commitment within institutions and among decision makers and politicians. Similarly, community and opinion leaders able to influence and promote policy-making and legislation, fostering trans-national and regional cooperation and coordination, as positive and lasting tools for social change, in order to help to turn the tide of social norms against FGM as well as create a protective environment for children. Save the Children has over the years committed both financial and technical support to promote the rights of children and influencing child friendly policies.

Desperate Jammeh waiting for crumbs

President Goodluck Jonathan of Nigeria

The Gambian President Yahya AJJ Jammeh, accompanied by a high powered delegation, on Wednesday left Banjul International Airport to attend a summit level conference on human security, peace and development in Abuja- the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

According to official sources within the corridors of the presidency, the summit is part of Nigeria’s centenary celebrations.

The Gambia and Nigeria have an amicable bilateral relationship since the early 90s but many are now beginning to wonder if the bilateral cooperation will continue to yield fruits after the Nigerian President, Johnathan Goodluck, was caught poison while on a visit in the Gambia.

Last year the Nigerian President was on a two day working visit in the Gambia during which many speculated that he was in Banjul to negotiate with the rouge Gambia government to signed bilateral cooperation with mainland China.

Few days after his departure, the ungrateful and dodgy Jammeh regime cut 18 years ties with the Republic of China-on- Taiwan.

In 2013, Chinese top legislator Zhang Dejiang was in Abuja to urge Nigeria to play a key role between China and other African countries for inter -China Africa Trade. “China attaches great importance to developing relations with Africa and expects Nigeria to play a constructive role in promoting China-Africa relations,” the top Chinese legislator said.

China is willing to work with Nigeria and other African countries to fully implement the results of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s African tour and those of the fifth ministerial conference of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation to make greater progress in advancing China-Africa relations.

Gambian Activists Dr Scattred Janneh and Alieu Badara Ceesay with EU officials in Brussels

Following a successful workshop on human rights in London, organised by Amnesty International, Gambian activists from Coalition for Change – The Gambia (CCG) and UK Campaign for Human Rights in the Gambia (CHRG), embarked on a whistle tour of Europe to admonish the European Union representatives to take a tougher stand against the Gambian dictator, Yahya Jammeh.

Dr. Amadou Scattred Janneh of CCG and Alieu Badara Ceesay of CHRG respectively visited Brussels and held a series of meetings with European Union (EU) officials and Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) on the deplorable human rights situation in The Gambia. A statement delivered on behalf of several Gambian Civil Society Organisations urged the European Union to impose tough measures against Yahya Jammeh’s government in view of the persistent and rapid deterioration of basic human rights under the regime.

The activists pointed to President Jammeh’s continued disregard of The Gambia’s obligations even in the face of an unprecedented global spotlight and despite the EU’s attempts to engage his administration. It is long overdue, they argued, for the international community to take decisive action to end repressive rule in The Gambia. Targeted sanctions – visa bans, asset freezes – and the disbursement of development aid strictly through third parties (independent development agencies or NGOs) were among the recommended measures.

Dr. Janneh and Ceesay expressed concern about recent reports that the EU was actually doubling aid to the Gambian regime instead of taking punitive measures. EU officials explained that the country qualified for 150 million Euros in development aid for the period 2014-2020 on the basis of a pre-set formula. Out of that total, only 20-25 million Euros will potentially be available for disbursement for 2014 and 2015 if the parties come to agreement during Article 8 Dialogue. Human rights remain a core element of engagements with the Gambia Government, according to EU officials. A January / February, 2014 meeting between the parties failed to materialise for “reasons of mutually busy agendas” and another one is being considered for March 2014.

Key MEPs were also briefed on the human rights situation in The Gambia, and both pledged to shed light on the country through the European Parliament and to work closely with human rights organisations in addressing violations by the regime led by Yahya Jammeh.

As a follow-up, plans are already being made to mobilise groups in preparation for the forthcoming EU-Africa Summit set to take place in Brussels from April 2-4, 2014. Gambian civil society groups are expected to coordinate advocacy activities with international human rights organisations such as Amnesty International before and during this high-level event.

The activists had earlier participated in a workshop organised by Amnesty International in London from February 10-12, 2014, which was aimed at building their capacity to engage with the United Nations’ human rights mechanisms.

The event was conducted ahead of the forthcoming second cycle of the UN’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Working Group slated for October 27 - November 7, 2014. The Gambia is one of 14 countries to be reviewed during this 20th session. As well as considering the current human rights situation, this second cycle is also supposed to assess the state of implementation of recommendations accepted by The Gambia during its first review (August 2010).

Participants reviewed the progress made by Gambian authorities in implementing the recommendations made during the 2010 UPR review cycle and discussed ways to coordinate the drafting of UPR submissions across different NGOs (non-governmental organisations). Areas examined included: extrajudicial executions, enforced disappearances and unlawful arrests; independence of the judiciary; prison conditions; freedom of expression; the death penalty; and women and children’s rights.

The AI workshop was attended by Gambian activists from Coalition for Change – The Gambia (CCG), UK Campaign for Human Rights in the Gambia (CHRG), and Human Rights for All (HUMRA) among others. However, AI does not campaign for sanctions as a matter of principle.]

West Midlands Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner, Yvonne Mosquito

By Sarata Jabbi-Dibba

The West midlands police yesterday organised a one day Female Genital Mutilation professional study day at their headquarters in Birmingham, UK. The aim of the study was to bring together professionals and women activist in raising awareness on the effects of FGM.

In her opening remarks, Yvonne Mosquito, West midlands deputy police and crime commissioner, said FGM is an unhealthy, violent and a form of child abuse.  She said 20,000 girls are at risk of the practice in the UK annually.

For her part, Lynne Featherstone, said “Parliament under Secretary of State, urged everyone to act together in ending FGM. The practice is violence against women and girls’ right, as a result it has been illegal in the UK since 1985. I have signed a petition to make a stop to FGM in collaboration with my colleagues from other government departments, as well as with other people outside the government”.

Minister Featherstone disclosed that £35 million project funding for five years in raising awareness, making change and putting an end to it. She urged all to join and support the global program on change in ending the practice.

Commander Mak Chishty, ACPO lead for FGM, Metropolitan police described FGM as unreligious, and a crime against girls. “This practice is performed on innocent and vulnerable people. We need to collectively understand the effects of the practice and look a solution to it so that our society can be a safe and healthy place for women and girls”. Mr. Chishty however stressed that they will actively investigate in any situation where they suspected of the act taking place.

During her presentation on the topic of “understanding the issues around FGM”, Alison Byrne-Specialist Midwife, Heart of England Foundation Trust, said FGM can have serious consequences for women’s health and always lead a complications during child birth. There are four types of FGM, and these as a result could lead infections, severe pain, bleeding and tetanus for the short term whilst on long term consequences could be suffer pain or discomfort during sex, chronic pain, abscesses, and fertility problem, she emphasized.

Other speakers include Suzanne Llewellyn, CPS-Head of west midlands regional crown court and RASSO Unit, Cary Scotford-Birmingham City Council Legal Services, who both highlighted on the legal proceedings in          FGM cases. According to them under the FGM Act 2003, it is an offence in England anyone found guilty will be liable to a maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment or fine or both.

The professional study day was attended by 300 people from different departments and charity organisations.

Cancer Doctor and patient -Yahya Jammeh!

By Papa Kumba Loum

There has been much speculation about the near end of the reign of President Yahya Jammeh. During the months of May/June of 2013 there were extensive rumors regarding the celebrated Senegalese clairvoyant lady Selbey Ndom who it was claimed had put an ultimatum of 90 days to Jammeh’s rule. This rumor was however quickly dispelled by Selbey herself in a TV interview. Most recently, we have been bombarded by the online newspapers about Jammeh’s failing health. First we were told it was bipolar disease, and then quickly followed by rumor of brain tumor and now we have been recently informed that he is suffering from colon cancer. Not surprising, many are hoping and even praying fervently that this recently pronounced ailment will incapacitate him sooner so that the Gambia and Gambians will be free from his shackles.

The disappearance of Jammeh from the scene will no doubt be a welcomed relief to many Gambians and non Gambians alike. Thousands of Gambians have been forced into exile for fear of being arrested, tortured, falsely imprisoned and even killed and they would like to come home on holidays and to visit their families and love ones, to work, invest etc, etc.

Jammeh has ruled the Gambia for the last 20 years with an iron fist and in the process, he has weakened and rendered ineffective all the branches of government especially the legislature and the Judiciary and many other institutions have been rendered unproductive due to his unlawful intrusive interference.  In today’s Gambia, Jammeh is the law, judge and executioner and the only business entity in the country. He has abused, maltreated, imprisoned and murdered many; continue to loot, pillage, and plunder the economy; make a mockery of and humiliated many religious leaders and prominent Gambians. Interestingly however,   Jammeh has been able to expose the selfishness and deplorable nature of many Gambians who have counsel, aided, abetted and implemented his agendas. Jammeh could not have done it alone without the connivance of many Gambians.

While we hopefully await his exit through divine intervention as it is obvious that Gambians don’t have what it takes to remove him from power, the question that should be in our mind is – will the demise of Jammeh transform Gambians to be conscientious, truly God fearing, truthful, unselfish and productive people? We should all be mindful of the fact that the likes of Dr Tamsir Mbow, Njogu Bah, Lamin Jobarteh, Edu Gomez, Fatoumata Jaumpa Ceesays, Alieu Mboge, Imam Fatty, Lang Conteh, Sanna Manjang, Solo Bojang, the Green Boys, the Black Black Boys to name a few are all home grown. These are born and bred Gambians who have shamelessly supported, implemented and defended his atrocities. Jammeh could not have done it alone without the support of many Gambians and the silent majority who believe that it is okay for Jammeh to imprison, kill and maim others so long as it did not affect them or their immediate families.

The demise of Jammeh will therefore not necessary wipeout this group of Gambians with these sickening traits. Believe me there are many Gambians with these attributes and that is why Jammeh has been able to replace them with ease as soon as they were liquidated after serving their purpose. You only have to visit the Mile 2 Central Prisons to find many of these revolting Gambians who hitherto their fall from grace were the mouth piece and implementers of all the heinous acts of Jammeh. The good thing is that the AFPRC/APRC is now cannibalizing its own children and sycophants and thanks to Jammeh’s madness and not because of any effective opposition and or pressure from civil society.

The new Gambia should therefore invest on institutions that work and we should all strife to abide by the dictates of the rule of law and separation of powers. Our Judiciary needs to be completely overhauled. An independent and corrupt free judiciary is just lip service in today’s Gambia and there is ample evidence to support this assertion. The civil service especially and security forces need to be de-politicize. Most importantly, Gambians should cut down on our hypocritical religious fervors and respect each other regardless of ethnicity, tribe and or religious beliefs and orientation. Gambians should value quality education and celebrate and reward excellence. We must engage each other openly on mundane and productive debates. Sadly Gambians have been fed with a lot of gibberish from Jammeh, his officials and sycophants. Mediocrity is the order of the day in all that we do and say – just visit Gambian institutions or watch and listen to GRTS and you wonder what kind of country we are living in.

Consequently as Gambians debate, form, structure and join organizations and eagerly await for divine intervention for the demise of Jammeh, we should not make the mistake of replacing him with another tyrant. Remember tyrants come in many forms and the only way to safeguard our liberties from despotic leadership is when we scrutinize all those who vie for public office and continue to monitor and engage them.  Our saving grace is to build institutions that work and oversight institutions (i.e. Human Rights Commission, Anti-corruption Commission, Ombudsman Office etc) that serve as a check to the excesses of government powers. We cannot give a free hand to anyone individual no matter how much we love and adore them. The last African Political Saint Nelson Mandela was buried on the 15 December 2013 and it will take a long time to have another reincarnate.   Gambians remember Lord Acton’s profound statement “power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely”. We need a dynamic, broadminded, dedicated, able, secular and forward looking leadership. After 20 years of despotic and idiotic rule, Gambia and Gambians now deserve better.