Gambia at 60: Pray for Her: The Generational Game: The Evolution of Governance: Navigating the Journey from Civilian to Military Rule, Transitioning to Military-Turned-Civilian Leadership, and Returning to Civilian Rule. This ongoing struggle highlights the critical tension between Democracy and Economic Development, ultimately shaping the complex Politics of Development and Democracy.
Alagi Yorro Jallow
Part X
Fatoumatta: In his groundbreaking book “Generation X: Tales for an Accelerated Culture,” Canadian author Douglas Coupland crafted a compelling narrative that transcends mere fiction to capture the essence of an entire generation. The story revolves around three young strangers, born between 1965 and 1980, who consciously choose to disengage from society in a quest to discover their true identities. This revolutionary work not only reflected the struggles and traits of its characters but also inspired the adoption of its title as a descriptor for the generation itself.
Literature has long sought to categorize the defining features of different generations by assigning them evocative labels that encapsulate the spirit of their times. For instance, the term “missionary generation” evokes those who navigated the complexities of Western colonization, characterized by widespread missionary efforts. Similarly, the “war generation” refers to those whose formative years were shaped by the harrowing realities of World War I and World War II. Through such labels, we gain a clearer understanding of the unique challenges and experiences that shape each generation.
By examining our history, we can draw a clear distinction between the generations in The Gambia, each shaped by pivotal events. We can categorize our forefathers from the era before Sir Edward Francis Small and Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara as the Colonial Generation. Those who lived through the Independence era rightfully belong to the Independence Generation, while the subsequent era can be defined as the Military/Civilian Generation. The generation that follows—having had limited opportunities to engage in national affairs due to their voices being overshadowed by those who came before—can aptly be named the Silent Generation.
In line with Douglas Coupland’s insights, the generation that succeeds the Silent Generation, comprising individuals aged twenty-six to forty-one, should be recognized as Generation X, with the younger cohort known as Generation Y. Each generation is defined by its unique social milieu, shaped by key events that influence attitudes and behaviors in distinct ways. Consequently, different age groups often share similar outlooks among themselves, while diverging sharply from those of other generations. This gap in understanding between older and younger individuals is a testament to the generational divide. However, societal progress thrives when diverse generational perspectives are acknowledged and integrated into our systems.
Regrettably, our current social structure remains dominated by members of the Independence Generation, alongside those from Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara’s and Yahya Jammeh’s Military Generations, as well as the Adama Barrow Generation. This dominance effectively silences the Silent Generation even more, stifling the rich contributions they could offer to our collective future. It’s crucial that we break down these barriers and encourage a more inclusive dialogue across generations to unlock the full potential of our society.
The members of the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara and Yahya Jammeh/Adama Barrow generations were incredibly fortunate. In the years following our independence, buoyed by a clean slate and an oil boom, opportunities in The Gambia flourished, allowing this generation to rise to power and firmly entrench their leadership positions. Sadly, they have shown little inclination to step aside.
Consequently, subsequent generations—those who came of age after our independence and during the military era—find themselves sidelined, overshadowed by elders who refuse to relinquish their grip on political power. The Sir Dawda and Yahya Jammeh/Adama Barrow generations dominate the leadership landscape in politics, agriculture, tourism, technology, and academia.
As we approach yet another election, the prospect for change appears dishearteningly bleak. The same individuals are vying for the same positions they held thirty years ago, even as our growing population presents greater opportunities than ever before. While the political influence of leaders from the independence and post military generations may have waned in recent years, the leadership dynamics remain stagnant and unresponsive to the aspirations of a new generation. In many societies, retirement is a vital and respected transition. Those who have worked tirelessly throughout their lives are expected to step back and allow new leaders to emerge. Yet in Gambian politics, retirement is a mere illusion. As long as leaders possess sufficient resources, they cling to power indefinitely, even when their time has clearly passed.
As both generations within the current political landscape maneuver for the upcoming elections, engaging in ceremonial handshakes and navigating bureaucratic red tape, a vibrant new generation is being stifled. Nelson Mandela once powerfully stated, “it falls upon a generation to realize that the 21st century calls for a new type of politics… it is crying out for a new generation that will step up to the plate.” While many voice the need for an ethnic shift, the real imperative is a generational shift. We must usher in a new wave of young politicians who can reinvigorate our political landscape and drive progress. Young people must be encouraged to engage in politics for the sake of sustainable development and continuity. Modern ideals are rising in this century, and we must seize this moment to meet the challenge head-on.
The true politics of our time is unfolding not among the elite, but within the public sphere—through grassroots action groups, thought-provoking opinion articles, media discourse, and the vibrant dialogue happening across social networks. In this pivotal moment, we must break the chains that bind us and place our communities at the forefront. It is essential to recognize that we hold the power to reclaim our choices. Let us sustain the spirit of this revolution for the future, ensuring that The Gambia is never short-changed again.
The 2026 elections will mark a defining moment in our history—a true test of our leaders’ commitment to the people. The ultimate challenge lies in whether the key players are genuinely dedicated to enacting meaningful change and salvaging our nation. If they truly wish to lead and save The Gambia, it is imperative that they prioritize the nation’s interests above their own personal ambitions. This requires the wisdom and courage of the older generations to pass the baton of power to the younger generation, enabling them to lead us toward a brighter, more equitable future.
Fatoumatta: The challenges and pressures of the “sit tight” presidency and other office holders have impeded our progress for far too long. This “sit tight” mentality extends beyond a president clinging to power; it includes older generations who, rather than stepping aside, choose to rebrand themselves as perpetual leaders, seemingly without end. The political landscape shaped by many of our current politicians stands in stark contrast to the global movements advocating for development and justice. Their politics are driven by genuine altruism and resonate with the principles of humanity across diverse generations, while ours stagnates in place. In established democracies, each election often brings forth a younger leader; yet in The Gambia, we find ourselves trapped in a cycle of repeated choices from the same aging figures.
Our nation desperately seeks food, employment, shelter, and security. We must provide access to clean water, reliable electricity, a reasonable standard of living, effective communication, transparency, and an education system that prepares our children to thrive with the rich resources of our homeland. Anyone with focus and determination can accomplish this, but revitalization demands a decisive generational shift. The younger generation generally holds a withdrawn, skeptical, and cautious view of politics, often appearing disillusioned with political figures. Despite this, who can blame them? They have grown up in an atmosphere rife with cynicism towards leadership, witnessing governments engage in erratic behavior while societal issues are attributed to a failed state. Yet, it is crucial that we awaken their interest and empower them to take ownership of their political perspectives; neglecting to do so risks awakening a powerful force left in slumber.
The youth embody a rich tapestry of ethnic diversity and innovation—they are undeniably the leaders of tomorrow. While the independence and military generations possess valuable experience, it is vital that their descendants are afforded the opportunities to learn and gain experience necessary for the future. The wisdom of the independence and post military generations is essential, but we must also stir the silent generation into action for effective governance. The older generation must acknowledge that the nation is transforming; citizens are increasingly aware of their rights and potential.
The political landscape of the next twenty years will be dramatically different from what we have witnessed in recent times. The next generation must lay the groundwork to confront those who wield grand rhetoric about freedom as a disguise for self-serving ambitions. We need fresh leadership—dynamic individuals brimming with innovative ideas and a fresh vision for our future. The old way of “business as usual” is not an option; future generations will demand their rightful turn at the helm. We cannot afford to repeat the self-serving era of “tazarche politics,” wherein incumbent leaders feel entitled to impose their will on a populace that resists. The process of cleansing our political system must begin with a generational shift. Rather than recycling ruling figures, The Gambia requires articulate, well-informed, and dynamic young leaders—individuals who can inspire both the electorate and the international community. A new generation is coming of age, and it is imperative that our current leaders pave the way for their success.
Fatoumatta: When Coupland penned his book, he struck a chord, illuminating a crucial issue; similarly, The Gambia must engage with this vital conversation as we see the numbers of the silent generation dwindle while our older generations age rapidly. The generations of Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, Yahya Jammeh, and Adama Barrow must actively help the silent generation reclaim its voice, establishing a precedent that will, in turn, empower Generation X to mentor Generation Y and future generations. Together, let us forge a generational victory by bridging the divide and winning this critical battle for our nation’s future.
