The level of performance of our leaders in office should be one of the issues to be judged as we enjoin each other to shift our attention to the future. This is the future that we all yearn for but was delayed due to the scourge of colonialism. It is commendable that after 50 years, Gambians are now willing to make positive changes in their country’s affairs, with renewed confidence.
Clearly, last week’s events are indicative of a consensus that our country now needs attentive treatment and it is up to Gambians to be fortified in their resolve to press ahead for greater progress. Hardworking and patriotic Gambians will be is expected to ensure the continued prosperity of our nation.
The last few days have also witnessed attempts at convincing Gambians that we can also develop like any other country. Our leaders have expressed displeasure at how colonialism has at best blurred our future as a country. These include the ravaging poverty and illiteracy that had reduced the people to helplessness.
Yet, our current government has extolled the journey that has been made so far since we gained independence. It later took comfort in the fact that it has played its own part in improving the lives of Gambians through the many policies and programmes it has formulated and implemented. As this feat comes into much sharper focus, our government has also promised in a more strident term to further deliver development indicators such as education, health, water, electricity, employment, and justice.
Nonetheless, the search for a better Gambia is a task on everyone particularly our leaders. They should be able to put The Gambia firmly on the path of irreversible social and economic prosperity even in the face of current challenges. More promises of development are filling the air, but they remain to be seen. But they give us all the opportunity to reorient ourselves and to determine whether we will play our parts in their fulfilment.
To achieve the required changes for genuine development demand serious planning, concentration, focus and sacrifices. As the 50-year anniversary opens a new chapter, many of us would want to begin it on a fresh slate. Great support is required from government policies for people’s plan to translate to reality. It is the duty of the government to ensure that right policies and programmes are formulated and implemented. The government should ensure the enabling environment for the healthy growth of the nation and its inhabitants. These are high hopes.
Tellingly, the days, that lie ahead of Gambians are charged. The feeling for greater transformation is palpable. The predictions are being made. All these should be particularly helped by the realisation of the country’s potentials as the government shapes policies in that direction. All those who have good intentions for the country must not be denied the chance to contribute their own quota towards the realisation of the country’s development objectives. The choices that we will make would either help us or hurt us for the next years to come.
However, clashes within the political class will expose the secrets of those who will wish ill for the country. As we move into the future, it is important to state that there will be those people who will continue to serve outsiders’ interest as against the country’s interest. They will continue to aim at ruining the country with their actions which they often count as blessings for the country.
The fact remains that Gambians should now shift their attention to what is left to be done in terms of our collective progress. Most of us need to assume our different but convergent roles in national development. We have what it takes to move this country forward and we have to structure our analysis of our future in a way that it fits our expectation. But the rituals of declarations and politicking will continue to centre on politicians and their interests.
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