Mboge,
       Your observations are quite in order. In as much as we need to change
the political situation, we should also be clear about what it is that we
want to change. It wouldn't do us any good, if we have to change a system
only to replace it with one which is not different, if not worst.

      The characteristic features of people, who genuinely desire to bring
about realistic and meaningful changes, to the social and ecomomic
circumstances that govern the lives of ordinary Gambians, is a matter that we
should pay close attention to. There are many people, particularly the PDOIS
leadership, who have amply demonstrated that they can live up to this
challenge. They have the will to sacrifice, the determination to overcome
difficulties, and the perseverance to succeed. A recipe which is good for any
governance structure, particularly in the pursuit to rebuild a nation.

    From the first republic to the second republic, it has become abundantly
clear that what our country needs is not cosmetic changes. It needs real and
fundamental changes that will positively impact on the lives of ordinary
Gambians. It needs leaders who are committed to the overall principle of
safeguarding the dignity of the human being; to accord to each the means
through which the elevation of the human condition could be realized.

      It needs leaders who will not only live for themsleves, but for others.
Leaders who will not pander to any interest groups, but are steadfastly,
sincerely and passionately committed to the interest of the common people. I
dare say, leaders who have all the characteristic traits of the Halifa
Sallah's and the Sidia Jatta's. Leaders who will not only govern by example,
but can influence the whole social structure through acts and deeds. It is my
humble opinion, that only such leaders can politically and economically
revolutionize the Gambia.

     We also need to draw a distinction between Socialism and other isms as a
political theory, and the practical approaches that genuine leaders can
commit to solve real problems dealing with real people. When it comes to
dealing with the fundamental issues, it will not be a question about
socialism or other isms, but instead what is practical, humane, democractic,
sustainable, and equitable. It will be a question of all the social virtues,
that will elevate the human condition from the misery and hopelessness, that
stares us mockingly in the face.

    Rene

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

To unsubscribe/subscribe or view archives of postings, go to the Gambia-L
Web interface at: http://maelstrom.stjohns.edu/archives/gambia-l.html

----------------------------------------------------------------------------