Gambia: The Perplexity Surrounding the Current Political Discourse

It is just a little over twelve weeks to the much anticipated date of December 1st which is set aside by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) for the crucial presidential elections in the Republic of The Gambia. The campaign trail is gradually heating up with the political parties beginning to crisscross the length and breadth of the country trying to win the hearts and minds of the electorates.  

Meanwhile, after the emphatic introduction of the Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC) and the less talked-about announcement of the candidature of Lawyer Joseph H. Joof, another independent candidate in the person of Dr. Isatou Touray has emerged. Interestingly, the emergence of the renowned gender and humans rights activist almost coincided with the unveiling of Adama Barrow as the United Democratic Party (UDP) flag bearer for the December 1st polls.

The euphoria in the GDC’s camp has so far been very overwhelming indeed making many to believe that the 3rd republic is imminent. Roll on the weeks and here comes Dr. Touray. So all of a sudden, the paradigm in the political arena swiftly begin to shift in her favour. Without a shadow of a doubt, most Gambians are yearning for a change but just who can usher in that change continue to perplexed many. Mamma Kandeh who have been touted as the only possible candidate who can make that change happen, have suddenly been debunked by Dr. Touray in the eyes of many. The differences in opinions amongst sympathiser and militants are already obvious but that is understandable in politics.

What is perplexing however is, some commentators who have been calling for other party leaders to rally behind Mamma Kandeh to lead a unified coalition over the past weeks are the ones suddenly advocating for the coronation of Dr. Touray as a coalition flag bearer. The same commentators who vehemently opposed going to elections prior to the emergency of Mr. Kandeh and Dr. Touray are the same ones loudly beating up the election drum. How confusing! As we desperately yearn for a change, our heads are being completely messed up and our patience/emotions are tested to the limit. So if care is not taken, we will end up making the wrong decisions in the ballot box come December 1st which could potentially lead to a catastrophic aftermath.

In hindsight though, having so many candidates vying for the presidency should have been deemed as a victory for democracy. But unfortunately, the saying - “the more, the merrier” is certainly not compatible with the current political climate in the Gambia. The more candidates we have for this coming elections, the more we are definitely going to make it easy for the incumbent to retain power.

Sadly, the outcry for a united coalition has so far largely fallen on deaf ears. Perhaps something is brewing behind the scenes but the signs are not at all promising as of now. How I wish am proven wrong! And how I wish that all opposition candidates are willing to come together and put forward just one candidate to challenge the incumbent. May peace continue to prevail in The Gambia.