The normalization of blatant dishonesty and overall deceit and incivility in politics sets a perilous precedent for the future of Gambian politics, as numerous individuals have entered politics to enrich themselves rather than serve the interests of the poor and vulnerable segments of our society. This phenomenon has led many to perceive most politicians as dishonest and deceitful, fostering widespread cynicism that has driven many to disengage from politics altogether, viewing it as a means of personal enrichment and self-interest rather than a platform for addressing the complex issues confronting our nation.
I was appalled to hear Lamin Jammeh, the former CEO of Brikama Area Council, on Mengbekering, recounting an episode of betrayal he orchestrated, wherein he induced Adama Barrow to form his own political party as early as 2019, a move that can be seen as an exercise of his fundamental liberty. According to Jammeh, he betrayed the UDP after being denied nomination as the mayoral candidate for the BAC mayoral elections and subsequently joined the National People’s Party, only to fall out with them as well, driven not by principles but by self-interest and greed.
He had been promised a position as state minister for local government and lands or director of physical planning. This individual, likely in his 80s, seemingly sacrificed his values, principles, and patriotic convictions for a mere position, reflecting the profound failures of our nation.
There are numerous individuals like Lamin Jammeh in our society, and despite their education, experience, and pretences of knowledge, they are devoid of moral integrity. Such individuals will readily compromise the interests of our nation when faced with the allure of power, prestige, and material gain.
Mr. Jammeh’s sweet words should be disregarded, as he has chosen to collude with individuals of questionable character, namely Yahya Jammeh and Adama Barrow. What credibility does Lamin Jammeh possess to address Gambians? Individuals like him fail to practice what they preach and should be ostracized, vilified, and shunned by all means. Their tactics of division and deception will not succeed.
These inconsistencies and opportunistic manoeuvres should be recognized as reprehensible moral deficiencies. On the other hand, the behaviour exhibited by Gambian politicians promotes polarization, deceit, and a lack of charismatic leadership, rendering it challenging to instill strong values and moral principles in future generations.
At its core, democracy relies on trust in institutions, leadership, and processes, which are purported to be noble, transparent, and transformative for our collective well-being. Citizens deserve to believe that their voices matter and that their elected officials will be held accountable for any wrongdoing. The focus of politics should be on addressing pressing issues, rather than exploiting complex cultural issues, and on serving the interests of our people, rather than deceiving them.
Consequently, Gambians should not place trust in Lamin Jammeh, despite his extensive knowledge of the local government act and the constitution of our nation. However, he lacks the character traits of a trustworthy individual, exhibiting selfishness, deceit, and a lack of wisdom, all of which hinder growth and development of the Gambia. He is no better than Adama Barrow and Yahya Jammeh combined. Previously, he portrayed both Yahya Jammeh and Barrow as saints, despite Gambians’ perception of him as dishonest and self-serving.
Today, he lacks the moral authority to speak to Gambians.
Individuals like Lamin Jammeh, who contaminate the minds of decent Gambians with their tainted ideologies, should not be provided with platforms, lest they undermine the democratic process. Consider his association with Seedy Ceesay, who demonstrated gross incompetence as a mayoral candidate, yet was duped into spending D200,000 on his campaign, with the expectation of reimbursement, a move that is not only disgusting but also ungodly and un-Islamic.
The likes of former CEO Jammeh erode trust in politicians. If elected president, he would be a horrible leader, and we must vigorously oppose his candidacy. Do individuals like him retain any sense of shame and moral decorum? The answer lies with Gambians, and in this regard, your speculation is as valid as mine.
