By Alagi Yorro Jallow.
Fatoumatta: In a nation long weighed down by gerontocracy, where the corridors of power still echo with the voices of an era reluctant to relinquish control, Alhagie Mamadi Kurang emerges as a force of renewal—a living embodiment of the future The Gambia urgently needs. His leadership is not merely an expression of personal ambition, but a continuation of a revolutionary legacy, carrying forward a torch reminiscent of the visionaries behind the People’s Democratic Organization for Independence and Socialism (PDOIS). Four decades ago, PDOIS reshaped Gambian politics, grounding its movement in intellect, ideological clarity, and pragmatic reform—a foundation that Kurang seeks to uphold as he challenges entrenched systems and pushes for a new political era defined by accountability and transparency.
Now, Kurang finds himself in a pivotal legal confrontation, one that could redefine his political trajectory much like Ousmane Sonko’s rise in Senegal. His ongoing defamation lawsuit with Amie N.D. Bensouda, alongside his bold D200 million counterclaim, positions him not just as a defender of personal integrity but as a symbol of governance accountability and resistance against political suppression.
Fatoumatta: Kurang is no novice to legal battles. His earlier dispute with the Gambia Arab Islamic Bank demonstrated his resolve in confronting powerful institutions, and now, this landmark case against Bensouda could cement his political future.
In Senegal, Ousmane Sonko rose from being a mere tax inspector and whistleblower to a national political force, challenging elite structures and igniting public fervor for justice and reform. Sonko’s dismissal from government propelled him into political stardom, and similarly, Kurang’s legal battle could galvanize support, transforming him into a formidable voice in Gambian politics.
As The Gambia struggles with transparency, political integrity, and the limits of free speech, Kurang’s defiance represents more than just personal vindication—it is a test of the country’s evolving democratic principles. If he successfully navigates this legal confrontation, he may emerge as an even more influential figure, resonating with voters who loathe injustice. Whether this case marks the beginning of his rise or simply reinforces his commitment to accountability, one thing remains clear: the political landscape is watching.
Fatoumatta: Kurang emerges as the natural successor to a movement that once defied the status quo, rejecting the hollow theatrics of politics centered on spectacle—dancing, drumming, and empty rhetoric—without intellectual grounding. Like the pioneers of PDOIS, he infuses politics with depth, integrity, and transformative innovation, ensuring that leadership is not merely a position but a responsibility to uplift, educate, and empower. As a future leader, he must emulate the example set by law-abiding political figures who, despite the archaic and anti-democratic nature of the Public Order Act, uphold the rule of law by using legal avenues to challenge injustices rather than resorting to defiance. Respect for institutional processes, even while advocating for reform, remains a crucial expectation of leadership committed to democracy and accountability.
His unwavering commitment to justice and development is not just a reflection of his own brilliance but a testament to the ideological foundation laid by those before him. In Kurang, The Gambia finds a leader whose vision is as expansive as his dedication is unshakable—an antidote to the political stagnation that has long plagued the nation.
Fatoumatta: Alhagie Mamadi Kurang transcends the roles of politician, activist, and educator; he is a tireless champion for justice and accountability. As the founder of Jollof Tutors and the former Secretary to the Janneh Commission, his relentless pursuit of transparency has profoundly influenced national discourse. His leadership in Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA) and his courageous stance against corruption have ignited a powerful movement demanding accountability for the veiled sale of former President Yahya Jammeh’s assets. Kurang’s fearless advocacy catalyzed a youth protest that bravely unveiled the hidden dealings surrounding Jammeh’s wealth, culminating in the unjust detention of 27 activists. His unwavering efforts sparked a crucial demand for scrutiny, leading the National Assembly to establish a parliamentary select committee to further investigate these asset sales. Through every challenge, Kurang has remained dedicated to the anti-corruption movement and the principles of ethical governance.
Fatoumatta: His eloquence, humility, and steadfast faith resonate throughout his leadership, presenting him not just as a political figure but as a pillar of excellence and service. As an entrepreneur and visionary, his influences surpass education and politics—he embodies the spirit of national progress, choosing the collective good of The Gambia over personal gain. Kurang’s legacy is one of decisive action, unshakeable integrity, and a relentless pursuit of justice. His brilliance and commitment to development represent the leadership The Gambia urgently needs today. He is not merely a promise for the future; he is a cornerstone of ethical leadership whose impactful contributions have already left an indelible mark on the nation and beyond.
An entrepreneur of remarkable ingenuity, Kurang’s establishment of JollofTutors exemplifies his visionary approach to creating impactful opportunities. His groundbreaking collaboration with the Independent newspaper—where he offered to train its accounting staff in exchange for publicity—highlights his adeptness at devising mutually beneficial solutions. This initiative not only reflects his entrepreneurial brilliance but also signifies his deep belief in education as a powerful catalyst for uplifting and empowering individuals. This conviction resonates with Nelson Mandela’s profound assertion: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
Kurang’s unwavering commitment to education is further reinforced by Booker T. Washington’s philosophy articulated in “Up from Slavery”, which emphasizes that practical solutions and the pursuit of knowledge are vital tools for empowerment. JollofTutors stands as a testament to Kurang’s enduring belief that education is foundational to both personal growth and societal advancement. Kurang’s political journey richly illustrates his steadfast dedication to public service. As the visionary founder of the Youth for Change political movement and a dedicated member of the People’s Democratic Organization for Independence and Socialism (PDOIS), he has tirelessly advocated for the marginalized and passionately represented the aspirations of young citizens. His disqualification as a presidential aspirant in 2021 could have deterred many, yet Kurang transformed this setback into renewed vigor, resolutely focusing his efforts on the Niamina East Constituency seat. His determination powerfully embodies James Baldwin’s reminder: “Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.”
Fatoumatta: Through his candidacy, Kurang boldly confronts the entrenched political barriers, reminding Gambians that the future belongs to those who have the courage to seize it. Moreover, Kurang’s influence extends beyond the political arena; his role as Executive Secretary of the Janneh Commission underscores his profound commitment to accountability and justice. Charged with investigating the financial dealings of former President Yahya Jammeh, Kurang approached this critical task with unwavering integrity and diligence. When conflicts emerged regarding the commission’s proceedings, he chose to resign rather than compromise his principles, exemplifying the moral fortitude that defines his character. His resolute stance echoes Václav Havel’s belief that “Truth and love must prevail over lies and hatred,” even when such clarity comes at a personal cost. Kurang’s actions resonate deeply with Havel’s vision of “genuine politics” as dedicated service to the community and future generations.
Furthermore, Kurang’s impact transcends his professional accomplishments. He is a mentor, a visionary thinker, and a patriot whose fervor for education and public service has inspired countless young Gambians. On a personal level, Kurang radiates qualities of humility, humor, and unwavering loyalty, leaving an enduring impression on everyone he encounters. As a mentor and friend, his influence is both profound and far-reaching, shaping the next generation of leaders and thinkers who will carry his torch forward into the future
Fatoumatta: His insatiable thirst for knowledge and prolific contributions to topics ranging from Pan-Africanism to public policy firmly establish him as a modern-day public intellectual, akin to W.E.B. Du Bois, who masterfully merged scholarly rigor with a passionate commitment to social justice. Alhagie Mamadi Kurang’s unwavering dedication to The Gambia, even at the cost of international prospects, demonstrates his profound belief in the potential of his homeland—a conviction that resonates with the sacrifices made by Pan-Africanist trailblazers like Kwame Nkrumah.
In Kurang, Gambians see not just a politician, but a transformative statesman in the making. He understands that true leadership is not defined by titles, but by the profound ability to inspire others to dream, take action, and believe in the possibility of meaningful change. His narrative serves as a powerful reminder that The Gambia’s future belongs not to those clinging to the past, but to the bold visionaries who dare to imagine a brighter tomorrow. Kurang’s life exemplifies the extraordinary power of persistence, passion, and purpose.
Fatoumatta: In a world often driven by materialism, he remains steadfastly focused on principles, willingly sacrificing opportunities abroad to commit himself to the betterment of The Gambia. As a young leader in a nation striving to transcend its history, Kurang embodies the virtues that Gambians crave: integrity, innovation, and an unyielding commitment to progress.
As we honor Alhagie Mamadi Kurang, we celebrate not only his countless achievements but also the noble ideals he represents. He stands as a beacon of hope in a nation yearning for renewal, a youth leader whose actions resonate with the timeless wisdom of Maya Angelou: “We may encounter many defeats, but we must not be defeated.” Kurang’s journey is a powerful testament to resilience, integrity, and the unwavering promise of progress. His legacy transcends The Gambia, serving as a clarion call for all who believe in the transformative power of visionary leadership. His story exemplifies that the path to transformation is paved by those courageous enough to challenge the status quo, ignite change, and stand firm in adversity. His enduring legacy continues to inspire hope, promising a brighter, more inclusive future for The Gambia and beyond.
Fatoumatta: In conclusion, Alhagie Mamadi Kurang is not merely a man of his time—he is a timeless figure, a youth leader whose vision and values will continue to inspire long after the chapters of history have been written. The Gambia’s future shines brighter because of his unwavering dedication, and his story serves as a powerful reminder that the best is yet to come.
