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Subject:
From:
Jabou Joh <[log in to unmask]>
Reply To:
The Gambia and related-issues mailing list <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Tue, 23 Nov 1999 09:53:32 EST
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G-L community,

l could not help but notice that many, not all,  who wrote to commend the
initiative by Dr Abdoulaye Saine to find common ground towards positive
contributions to the betterment of our country, also interjected some
criticism of what they term " the rhetoric on the L", and how tired of it
they were, or how they ignored it etc, etc. With all due respect, l have to
point out that it is this so called "rhetoric" that inspired the very
discussion towards healing that they are praising. l totally agree that mere
rhetoric is fruitless, and the discussions that have taken place here over
the last several months is much more than just so-called rhetoric.For this
reason, l will not be among those who view these discussions that have ensued
on this list regarding the state of our nation as just mere rhetoric.Rather,
information, both positive and negative  regarding the things that are
shaping our nation were provided and discussed, and opinions given. This is
healthy debate that has translated into an awareness of  the problems we face
as a nation, whether inflicted by individuals or the present administration
in place at home. Due to this very exchange so blindly termed "rhetoric",
those amongst us with a keen eye for analysis, as well as what l call " a
natural knack for diplomacy" came forward to offer an analysis of the views
expressed and the problems identified, as well as to suggest strategies for
gaining a common ground, and for moving our nation forward. One of the
individuals, and the first to be identified under the category of providing
an analysis of the discussions and views expressed on the L, and offering a
strategy for possible solutions, is Dr Abdoulaye Saine. l want to point out
to those who tend to label everything as "rhetoric" and give an impression of
being above this rhetoric, that this new movement towards building a bridge
towards change, and which all have embraced and praised, is a result of the
analysis of the views and information provided by the so-called "rhetoric"
speakers by Dr Saine's keen eye. Any downplay, dismissal or lack of
recognition of that fact lends an air of dishonesty to the voice of those who
express it.
Therefore, l remind all my fellow Gambians, that in order for us to move
forward as a nation, we must not only try to focus on actions rather than
mere words, but we must also be honest in recognizing the truth, and giving
credit wherever that credit is due.Anything short of this will tend to be
seen as a sort of self agrandizement, and will consequently lesson or
undermine the credibility of the contributor no matter how impressive.
To continue on  the issue of engaging in actions rather than mere words, and
giving credit where it is due, GESO is an organization that was born from
discussions on this L regarding the  state of our educational institutions at
home. From discussion, we moved forward to identify possible solutions and to
invite those who wanted to put their money where their mouth is, to join the
organization, and to start by sending in their monthly dues.Many people have
come forward, including chapters in Norway, Denmark, U.K, The Gambia,  and
here in North America. This past month, we sponsored our first four high
school students. We have posted the GESO document to this list several times,
so that at least the majority of the members of this list have seen it, and
are familiar with the organization's goals, among which are the sending of
computers and other educational aids to The Gambia, and serving as a resource
for our schools back home. Here is what l think is a worthy organization that
can provide an avenue for going beyond mere criticism to action.
However, as many notices as we have sent out on the L regarding GESO, and as
mauch commentary as we have witnessed that pertains to action rather than
words, very few people have joined this organization to put their money, time
and energy to make a difference. Therefore, l am throwing out a challenge to
those who are ready to move beyond rhetoric, to please join GESO, so we can
do something, right here, right now, while we are working on setting the
agenda for even greater achievements for our country.


Meanwhile, let us keep in mind that it is criticism and discussion that
inspired us towards the formation of this organization, and it is continued
discussion and yes, criticism that has to continue in any society and nation,
to make sure that the machinery of government tends to the business of the
people. In short, for effective meeting of ideas, building of bridges, and
the harnessing of individual contributions that result in good governance to
benefit all, l hope we never come to a point where constructive criticism and
the expression of our opinions are not just dismissed as mere "rhetoric"  Let
us make efforts to move forward by organization , action but by all means
honesty as well.

Jabou Joh

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