Alagi Yorro Jallow
Fatoumatta: In Shakespeare’s Macbeth, we encounter a powerful cautionary tale about ambition and moral decay. Macbeth, lured by prophecy and consumed by impatience, seizes the throne through treachery, unleashing chaos that plunges Scotland into darkness and civil war, ultimately leading to his own demise. This narrative serves as a stark reminder that while destiny may present opportunities, it is character that sustains honor — or, as in Macbeth’s case, unravels the corruption beneath. In striking contrast, Alhagie Alieu Momar Njie, the outgoing Chairman of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), embodies the virtues of courage, integrity, and selflessness.
In 2016, as The Gambia stood on the precipice of transformative change, Mr. Njie declared Adama Barrow the victor of a presidential election, boldly challenging the oppressive regime that had gripped the nation for 22 long years under Yahya Jammeh. Where Macbeth’s ambition spiraled into tyranny, Mr. Njie’s unwavering conviction brought forth freedom and democracy. His actions were guided not by self-interest but by a profound commitment to truth and to the people of The Gambia.
Unlike Macbeth, whose legacy is marred by destruction, Mr. Njie’s legacy will be celebrated as that of a steadfast guardian of democracy. He upheld the sacred trust placed in him, showcasing that genuine leadership transcends personal gain and is rooted in serving the common good.
Fatoumatta: As we bid farewell to Mr. Njie’s remarkable career, we pay tribute to a man who stood resolutely amidst adversity, offering hope to a nation eager for change. His courage is a testament to the fact that history is shaped by those who dare to fight for what is right, even when the risks are monumental. Mr. Njie’s contributions will leave an indelible mark, inspiring future generations of leaders to embody the principles of integrity, fairness, and justice.
As he embraces retirement, we celebrate a life dedicated to public service and express our deep gratitude for his unwavering commitment to democracy.
May his legacy shine brightly, illuminating the path toward a freer and more prosperous Gambia. Alieu Momar Njie, who oversaw the groundbreaking and contentious 2016 presidential election that restored democracy and freedom in The Gambia, held one of the most daunting and thankless roles in our nation as the Chairperson of the electoral commission—a true poisoned chalice. The pressure he faced during his tenure was monumental, from financial inducements and internal strife within the electoral commission to protests calling for his resignation and even death threats. Despite the intense scrutiny and attempts to manipulate presidential results, he stood resolute, executing his duties with extraordinary courage, integrity, meticulous attention to detail, and a clear, unwavering mindset.
A staunch advocate for moral integrity and an impartial arbiter, he upheld what was right in a country where integrity is often viewed as a burden. During moments of crisis, the constitution was his guiding star. For him, it was far better to do the right thing and face hatred than to choose the wrong path for fleeting popularity. He lived by the solemn oath he took upon assuming office.
His unwavering commitment to the rule of law was the backbone of his public service. Through his actions and convictions, he illustrated that public service is not about luxurious offices, expensive attire, or flashy vehicles, but rather about uniting in service of the common good and encouraging each individual to play their part in steering the nation toward progress. He revived the public’s faith in the impartiality of the electoral process amid relentless attempts by the executive to erode that independence. He delivered unvarnished truth to power; when the government disregarded court orders, he raised his voice in condemnation. He harnessed his position as Chairman of the IEC to advocate fiercely for the voiceless. The electoral process in our country vastly improved during his tenure. He produced unprecedented verdicts on both presidential and general elections with a bravery that recognized the potential dangers to his own life and that of his family.
Today, the call for political courage is more urgent than ever. As Senator John F. Kennedy astutely noted in 1956, long before he became president, Chairman Alieu Momar Njie and Halifa Sallah, a member of PDOIS and the former spokesperson for the Coalition in 2016, took principled and often unpopular stances that put them at odds with friends, colleagues, and constituents, but they deemed necessary for themselves and the Gambian people. Extraordinary circumstances demanded acts of political courage.
In the aftermath of the political impasse, Alieu Momar Njie chose to side with conscientious Gambians, aligning himself with justice and refusing to retreat into complacency. Throughout his tenure as Chairman of the Independent Electoral Commission, he fulfilled his responsibilities with remarkable courage and unwavering fidelity to the Constitution.
As we celebrate the remarkable journey of Mr. Njie, we pay tribute to a truly inspiring leader who faced challenges with unwavering determination, instilling hope in a nation eager for transformation. His bravery reminds us that our history is made by those who bravely advocate for what is just, even when the pressure is immense. Mr. Njie’s remarkable contributions will undoubtedly motivate future leaders to champion integrity, fairness, and justice.
Fatoumatta: As he embarks on this exciting new chapter of retirement, we wholeheartedly honor his lifelong dedication to serving his country. With immense gratitude, we acknowledge his steadfast commitment to democracy. May his legacy shine brightly, guiding the way toward a more vibrant and liberated Gambia for generations to come!
