Gambia-l:

The underlying causes of the current Senegambian Soccer Crisis that Buharry
outlined need to be addressed in any attempts to normalise relations
between the Gambian and Senegalese peoples.  However, I believe we need to
do much more that returning to the status quo ante.

The incidents, even though clearly unfortunate, should be viewed as a wake
up call for The Gambia and Senegal to find a PERMANENT and viable solution
to our simmering difficult relations.

It is my contention that the answer lies in the gradual and total
integration of the Gambian and Senegalese economies and polities.  The
modalities and timeline for such an integrative process or union could be
worked out between us.  Of course, such a monumental decision would require
systematic education and sensitization, as well as maximum input from both
the Senegalese peoples--perhaps through referenda at some stage.  

This may appear far-fetched or far-flung, but Senegal and The Gambia's
propinquity (kinship and proximity) make integration the most sensible,
viable, and promising alternative to all the top-down ad hoc arrangements
we've ever had.

I hope to contribute more to this debate when I return to Senegal / Gambia
later this week.

Amadou SJ
ps: yes, my wife is from Dakar.

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