(JollofNews) – Taking the combined vote against Mr Jammeh of 62 per cent with some 362,000 desisting from voting, represents a significant thumbs-down from the people against the governing APRC.
The twin forces of democracy and people power conspired against Mr Jammeh in resounding fashion. It brings forth the notion that the people ousted the incumbent, whilst the combined opposition were meerly the conduit of the people to inflict their truly democratic decision.
There can be no other conclusion. This combined vote against Mr Jammeh in this election was very similar to what he polled in previous elections. This significant and combined action of the people should now give a lot of confidence that by no peaceful means could Mr Jammeh make any significant political comeback in any future presidential election.
In essence the ‘true Gambia’ has arisen from its sleep. In these early days some of the comments from the former opposition leaders to a very disorganised prospect for a progressive government with a certain and quantified direction to commence.
This new government in waiting contains diverse elements, different and well defined agendas. Therefore, President-elect Barrow must assert a true agenda for reform of the judiciary, the constitution, the armed forces and the police without delay.
A commission of enquiry could be set up to deal with the many outstanding concerns of actions taken during Mr Jammeh’s 22 year rule. But this should not detract from the pressing economic reforms required to be implemented, not least the need to address the agricultural foundation, for a diverse and practical food based economy.
The tourism industry should pick up on the back of decreased concerns over Ebola and the former authoritarian rule, which clashed significantly with the ease in which British tourists were comfortable with.
Remittances from employed Gambians abroad should also continue within the more certain foreign economic situation, particularly since the rise and expectation for business from US President-elect Donald Trump.
What the Gambia needs most is foreign currency and a major reduction in its debt servicing. The Gambia is now very marketable and its currency should hold its own provided these reforms are promised and well thought through.
It was very heart warming to note the release of Mr Darboe and his supporters from Mile Two Prisons and I must admit to shedding a tear myself as he recounted his own tears on the news of the emphatic defeat of President Jammeh.
The Gambia is blessed with an experienced group of permanent secretaries, who given a free hand, can help greatly to map out the road ahead. I think the comments made online about Mr Barrow being a former employee of Argos are very mean indeed.
Some of our journalists are employed in much lesser positions but remain good contributors to distant families. To work is a right, the manner of that work is of no significance when it comes to a sensible approach to ambition.
Mr Barrow has climbed to his high position by his own means. He should be congratulated. He is a shining example of what a man can achieve. It only requires confidence and belief. Well done sir.
