Alagi Yorro Jallow
Fatoumatta: When bigotry disguises itself as patriotism, The Gambia faces a critical dilemma. We must confront the uncomfortable truth: political arrogance and tribalism will not simply vanish on their own. It is alarming that many of those spreading hate and sycophancy are young, educated individuals, which is deeply troubling.
The Gambia is a nation governed by the rule of law, not by the whims of individuals. As citizens, when we feel wronged, we must seek justice through the courts, rather than nurturing hatred, contempt, and prejudice. Those who believe someone is unfit to serve the government or the nation due to unlawful actions should challenge this in a court of law, not cling to grievances. Every Gambian has the inherent right to serve and contribute to any government unless explicitly barred by law.
We must decisively end tribalism, selective justice, and discrimination within our society. It is particularly disheartening when selective justice and discrimination are directed at individuals whose actions and statements pose far less danger than those of their tribespeople or political allies. Activists and feminists must rise above bias, tribal loyalties, and discrimination when calling out wrongdoers. We cannot shield those accused of heinous acts or who embody the oppression of past regimes.
It is a tragic reality when ethnic ties are prioritized over the values of integrity. We urgently need to cultivate a Pan-Gambian identity to restore our faltering sense of unity. When tribal bigotry masquerades as patriotism, it reveals a profound crisis in The Gambia. It is high time we dispel the illusion that tribalism will naturally fade away.
Disturbingly, many of those perpetuating hate are young men and women, often well-educated. We must recognize the fine line between patriotism and tribalism. True patriotism is defined by a love for and commitment to one’s country, while tribalism reflects an intense loyalty to a single tribe.
Fatoumatta: For The Gambia to thrive, our dedication to our nation must eclipse our allegiance to the tribe. It is easy to point fingers at others for the lack of unity, but we all play a role in this divisive narrative. The conditions of our existence will never be perfect; however, we can and must find common ground, coming together to build a nation that is strong, united, and inclusive.
