The Administrative Secretary of the opposition United Democratic Party, Alhaige S Darboe who represented his leader in today’s national dialogue at State House, urged the President to exercise tolerance towards political opponents and avoid holding grudges and inferiority against the country’s opposition.
During his deliberations, Hon Darboe told President Barrow to see oppositions as his opponents not enemies emphasizing that their role is to serve as watchdogs and to criticize policies and programs of the government.
“Mr President, you should distinguish between national and political events for the betterment of the country. I feel very uncomfortable if I see my brother, Barrow, lashing at my Father, Darboe. But, I felt comfortable if I saw my father, Darboe criticizing the policies of my Brother, Barrow and he ( the President) defending those programs. I am appealing for the continuous existence of a fatherly-son relationship between the two leadership for the interest of peace and stability” Darboe Stated.
The Brikama North Law-maker went on: “People normally highlight the formulation of numerous commissions in the country but implementation is always troubling. I hope the conclusion of this dialogue will not follow the same pattern.”
He emphasized the need for humility and tolerance between leaders while acknowledging the importance of public service ministry. Hon Darboe argued that nothing much has been achieved by the institution.
“There should be political will and commitment to fight against corruption thoroughly and the anti-corruption commission should not be that of the land commission. In this view, the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country should not and must not be compromised by all means” UDP’s Admin. Secretary reiterated.
The leader of Gambia Moral Congress, Mai Ahmed Fatty highlights the importance of politics and leadership with morality. Arguing that the country is not in deep crisis instead, we are battling with issues of attitude.
“The Only problem the Gambia has always been faced with is leadership and politics without morality” Mai Ahmed Fatty, GMC as he calls for attitudinal change during his expended speech.
The leader of GDC, Mama Kandeh who did not express any reservations about the dialogue, took time to remind the President of his responsibilities during his annual ‘meet the people tour’.
“Mr President, I want to remind you that the Meet the People tour is not a political tour. Therefore, all political parties should have a say in every meeting” says Mama Kandeh of GDC during the national dialogue.
All set and done, the entire country will be looking forward to the attitude of leadership after this important gathering.
However, the notable absence of Ousainou Darboe has raised concerns, considering his icon position in the country. Yet, his members were defensive to his decision.