The risks of tribalism in Gambian politics lie within the paradox of those that decry tribalism whereas concurrently partaking in it by labeling others as tribalists

by Alagi Yorro Jallow.

Fatoumatta: Tribalism and ethnic politics current a big menace to the social unity and democratic integrity of The Gambia. The current feedback made by President Adama Barrow throughout his “Meet the People’s Tour” within the Lower River Region have reignited this delicate difficulty. Barrow criticized the tribalism obvious within the earlier elections, claiming that quite a few Mandinka voters supported Ousainou Darboe, additionally a Mandinka, over him. These remarks have brought on an uproar amongst supporters of the United Democratic Party (UDP), who accuse Barrow of using the tribalism card and allege that Darboe and his followers are the extra tribalistic occasion.

Tribalism accusations have lengthy continued in Gambian politics. Both despot Yahya Jammeh and Ousainou Darboe, the UDP chief, have confronted such claims. Remember when Yahya Jammeh focused the Mandinka ethnic group and threatened to deport the author as a result of tribal affiliation? Similarly, Aji Secka, the UDP’s deputy secretary, overtly sought Mandinka help for his or her “own son” in Sami, (Niani), fueling these allegations. There have been additionally cases when UDP members attacked the Sarahule neighborhood. Additionally, UDP’s notorious public figures Bakary Trawalley and Banfa Camara have been identified for insulting and attacking the respect and popularity of the Chief Justice on social media as a result of he belongs to the Fula ethnic group. This steady cycle of blame solely deepens divisions and distracts from the urgent points dealing with the nation.

Fatoumatta: As the Gambian populace grows extra conscious of misleading and deceptive campaigns on social media, we witness the pattern of conspiracy theories morphing into so-called conspiracy information, serving as pseudo-intellectual propaganda geared toward uneducated voters. What troubles me in Gambian politics is the concentrate on chasing the shadows of the elephant at nighttime corners of the basement, whereas ignoring the evident difficulty in the lounge: the tribal lords of occasion leaders responsible of tribalism. This difficulty predominantly entails the educated, the semi-educated, and people who, regardless of dwelling overseas, lack private development and mental curiosity.

Fatoumatta: The persistent points in Gambian politics have been ethnicity and corruption. Recall the time when my colleagues at The Independent and I, being Fulas, confronted deportation from The Gambia whereas our citizenship was questioned. Remember when Pap Saine was threatened with deportation, perceived not as Gambian however as Wolof. Recall the vilification of the Mandinkas by Jammeh on nationwide tv. Consider the institution of the Manding Network and the appointment of Amadou Kora as a tribal chief for political functions. Reflect on Police officer King Colley’s tribal and xenophobic feedback towards Fula-speaking people on social media, which solid doubt on his judgment.

Despite his absurdly ethnocentric remarks, he discovered himself extra remoted than ever earlier than. Consequently, we can not choose our leaders and public officers solely primarily based on their {qualifications}. Recall Yusupha Jaiteh’s remarks on tribal bigotry. Furthermore, we regularly overlook the plain and act as if it’s non-existent. Yet, with President Barrow’s management, the proof is clearer than ever that that is the central difficulty.

Fatoumatta: Our political panorama turns into tumultuous when particular person ambitions collide with the pressing want for ethnic lodging, edging us nearer to disaster every time. Since the period of Yahya Jammeh and Ousainou Darboe, we’ve been ensnared in a cycle of harmful ethnic competitors. Yet, we stay hesitant to take daring steps to deal with this difficulty. Shall we persist in inaction and bequeath this poisonous legacy to our progeny as was accomplished by our forebears? Is it not the second to implement formal constitutional reforms to confront, assimilate, and alleviate this problem earlier than it overwhelms us? Other nations have succeeded on this endeavor, and so can we.

Fatoumatta: When will the folks of Gambia come to know that tribalism, in any type, is a dire insult to the spirit of nationalism? The aftermath of the genocide in Rwanda stands as a stark reminder that indulging in tribal agendas is a betrayal of our patriotic obligation. Among the issues I despise, tribalism tops the record. I consider tribalism diminishes our mental capability; how else can one clarify that in a nation like ours, stuffed with educated and worldly people, many nonetheless retreat into tribal enclaves for political acquire? You may rationalize your disdain for others and your sycophancy, however you’ll by no means persuade me that such habits is something however intellectually barbaric.

Tribalism in politics is perilous because it erodes the tenets of democracy and nationwide cohesion. It diverts consideration from coverage and governance to ethnic loyalties, fostering an surroundings the place tribal affiliation eclipses advantage and talent. This impedes progress and breeds animosity and suspicion amongst ethnic teams. The Gambia’s true energy is its range. Home to quite a lot of ethnic teams, every contributes to the nation’s wealthy cultural material. In Gambian politics, embracing this range and fostering inclusivity is important. Leaders ought to transcend tribal biases to forge a unified and thriving nation.

It is crucial for political leaders to set an instance by refraining from making divisive statements and as an alternative, selling messages of unity and solidarity. The media and civil society even have an important position to play in fostering a tradition of tolerance and understanding. By highlighting the hazards of tribalism and advocating for inclusive politics, they can assist mitigate the adverse affect of ethnic divisions.

Fatoumatta: In abstract, the affect of tribalism and ethnic politics hinders The Gambia’s development. It is essential for all concerned events to concentrate on nationwide unity and foster a political local weather the place each Gambian can prosper, regardless of ethnic origin. The Gambia can surmount the challenges of tribalism and pave the way in which for a affluent future for each citizen solely by working along with a dedication to inclusiveness.