By Mafugi Ceesay
The deputy party leader of the UDP Aji Yam Secka, has told The Standard that the late former Gambian leader Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara inspired and moulded her to become a determined and courageous politician.
In her tribute to Sir Dawda shared with The Standard, she wrote: “When we look on the history of The Gambia, we find that different people featured in prominent ways at various times.
The era of self-determination, upholding the principles of democracy and protecting the rights of individuals belongs to Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, and it is my pleasure and privilege to pay tribute to him.”
Yam Secka further said Jawara had steered this country through times of great challenge from the early days of the struggle for fundamental human rights.
She said Jawara both as Prime Minister and President, Jawara had presided over many defining moments and major developments throughout the country.
“Sir Dawda was very good at encouraging political initiatives and cultivating team work.
I learnt a lot through the PPP, rising through the ranks Sir Dawda’s influence and character has helped and inspired me.
“President Jawara was a towering figure in our time, a legend in life and now in death-a true global hero.
Knowing him was one of the great honours of my life.
My heart goes out to his family and to all Gambians and around the world whose lives were changed through his courage.
Jawara’s name is synonymous with the pursuit of dignity and tolerance. He championed the cause of both the majority and the minority and the minority through multi-party democracy.”
“Finally, I would like to implore all Gambians, to work towards safeguarding what President Jawara fought for and making sure that his legacy is protected in the best interest of the Gambia and her people.
May God the Almighty grant his soul Jannatul Firdaws.
Ameen,” she prayed.
