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Open letter to President Yahya Jammeh
Wednesday, 05 May 2010 16:28
Mr. Yahya JAMMEH (Rtd. Col), (all your Titles & Names & Decorations in mind…)President of The Gambia,
Bismillah-ir-Rahman-ir-Rahiim
As-Salaamu ´Alaikum wa Rahmatullah wa Barakatuhu.
Assuredly I say to you, the best thing you can do for yourself as the Captain of the Ship of State of the Gambia and the Gambians today is to have a ``Council of Wise Elders`` around you. ``HE IS NO FOOL WHO GIVES WHAT HE CANNOT KEEP TO GAIN WHAT HE CANNOT LOSE!`` Even in laughter the heart may ache, and joy may end in grief. The Apostle Paul wrote, ``Let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall`` (Holy-Bible, 1 Cor. 10:12) ``The stubborn ear that refuses to hear good advice will always go into the grave with the head.``
Is there anybody, friend or family member trying to give you a wise word of correction today? Is there guidance in the Constitution (Law) that you´ve been ignoring? Pride says, ``I don´t want to hear it.`` What is there that every human being carries inside his/her bag? ``Wisdom!`` Wisdom says, ``You´re close to the edge. Humble yourself. Stop, listen, and live longer!``
Yahya Jammeh! Do all the good you can, by all means you can, in all ways you can, in all places you can, to all people you can, at all times you can, as long as you ever can.
Yahya JAMMEH! I pray that God, the Almighty Allah Guide, Protect, and shower His blessings on you. May He continue to give you many years in prosperity and health.
Don´t ask, ``Why did Sana-Bairo pray for Yahya JAMMEH?`` If you ask…. I refer you to the Holy Bible: ``Far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you`` (1 Samuel. v.23.) When we are snubbed and hurt by those we try to serve, we must resolve not to sin against the Lord by snubbing and hurting them in return. Instead, by God´s grace, we can pray sincerely for those who may not value our best efforts.
Betrayed by a Friend:
It is hard enough to deal with enemies, but far harder to face the fact of betrayal by a close friend or ally.
There are always lurking enemies whom we may not know, but whom Allah knows. It is our duty to be ready against all, for the sacred Cause under whose banner we are fighting.
If separation is inevitable, the parties should not throw mud at each other, but recognize what is right and honourable on a consideration of all the circumstances.
A false man, by swearing that he is true, makes his falsehood all the more heinous. He stands in the way of other people seeing the truth. He gives a handle to the cynics and sceptics. If men are false to their covenants and words, the natural consequence will be hypocrisy and betrayal to cover their falsehood.
REMEMBERING Captain SADIBOU HYDARA:
Malignant envy, translated into action, seeks to destroy the happiness or the material or spiritual good enjoyed by other people. The best guard against it is trust in Allah with purity of heart.
Captain Sheriffo Sadibou HYDARA was a Mount Everest personality who happily and sincerely took part in the 22nd July Revolution 1994. Sadibou was virtually a saint, at least for me. He discharged his duties with skill and dedication to both God and the people. What a record! What a testimony! He was loyal and conscientious on the job-all the while giving God and country first place. Sadibou´s life revealed the reality of his faith. He conducted himself so honourably in his high office that you (Jammeh) and Edward Singhatey were jealous. You were jealous and began to devise means of getting rid of him. But hard as you (two) tried, you could find nothing in his life to use against him. From the Bible, I could say, ``He was faithful; nor was there any error or fault found in him.`` (Daniel: v.4) Sadibou´s life was so far above reproach that his enemies (Jammeh & Singhatey) had to create a situation in which his commitment to God would come into conflict with his government position. You went too far in torturing him, even though you knew exactly what you were doing was wrong, still you could ``find no charge or fault`` in him. In the end, Sadibou died in detention from tortures….
Yahya JAMMEH! Your conscience is continually condemning you. Are you plagued with a load of guilt? Does hearing his name, especially from me (Sana-Bairo), remembering his untimely departure, only add to your sense of guilt and make you even more upset? The relief of being forgiven of your sins and the peace of a clear conscience do not come by simply being silent over Sadibou´s killing. A clear conscience is a soft pillow. You must personally go to his family and grave. Accept it´s a human error that centered on your selfishness and hypocrisy-from your minds and hearts. It´s the only way of peace-your peace of mind. Your heart will be restless till you visit his family and grave, but with a sincere heart.
You took the life of a young man. You deprived the world, the Gambia, his parents, his family, and friends of their part in his industrious life and the chance to share in his future. He is gone, but never out of our minds and prayers. Sadibou´s heart was full of people. He has an infectious ebullience that inspires all who know and work with him. This combination of commitment to truth and compassion for people is the hallmark of everyone who, like Sadibou Hydara, reflects the mind and heart of a Good Leader and sincere sticky friend. He was much loved and a blessing to everyone who met him.
Few hours before Captain Sheriffo Sadibou HYDARA departed us in this world, he had reminded me with; ``How deep does it wound you when others despise your labour of love? Don´t despair- It´s then you must view them with Spirit-filled eyes and love your offenders with prayers.`` And Jesus words, ``PRAY FOR THOSE WHO SPITEFULLY USE YOU`` (Mathew. 5:44)
THERE IS NOTHING SO POWERFUL AS TRUTH.
“An honest answer is like a sweet kiss on the lips,” says the Holy-Bible (Proverbs: 24:26)
I will start by asking you a few stupid questions. (1) ``Do you believe that some Individuals (e.g., Sana-Bairo Sabally, Bubacarr A. Sankanu, All Editors and Contributors of Abroad-based GambianOnline Newspapers, especially, Mathew K. Jallow, Pa Nderry Mbaye, etc.,) and the Opposition Political Parties hate you, and so are enemies of State?`` (2) If they hate you, why do they hate you or what do they hate in you? What evidence is there for all this? For answer, NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH, no one hates you in person! We all hate your selfish attitudes!
Freedom is not Free! Sweat, toil, suffering, blood and death are all part of the sacrifice for a sacred Cause for one’s country. They should not turn away the good genuine man from his love for his country. “Duty-call for your Nation” includes every act of sacrifice and goodness, every kind thought and kind deed, for this is the service which nationalism requires of us.
Look at Zimbabwe: ZANU-PF & MDC… (Unity Government). You have a better example in Uncle, Mr. Lamin Waa Juwara. He did just that! Our experience proves one thing: National Sacrifice is True Patriotism. He´s one of the Opposition Political parties leaders (NDAM). He´s very outspoken and brave. He is not and never an enemy of State or to you (Jammeh), as you´re one time made to believe. Uncle Waa met me in Mile II…. Because of the love he has for our country, he is today a Regional Governor under your government-that is unselfishness and patriotism on his side. Is that a sign of Government of National Unity (with the Opposition)? Both you and Uncle Waa know that you are not enemies. The rules in politics call for ``opposing/contesting`` with each other. I want you (Jammeh) and all those in your camp to see the other Opposition political party camps the same. Enjoy the fun of ``opposing`` each other, but give us-our Ship of State a good leadership steering and in the right direction.
To a great or lesser degree, all of us have something about our own looks that we don´t like. So it is towards other people. It’s not wrong to hate when we hate what is wrong. It’s possible that hatred can be a comfort when the alternative is grief.
EXERCISE YOUR RIGHT
Thomas Jefferson, who in 1776 wrote the first draft of the US Declaration of Independence, took it for granted that all of us possess certain God-given, ``unalienable rights.`` Yet, even in a democracy, there is fierce discussion about who is entitled to what rights.
Gambians can today and all times look at ``rights`` from another perspective. Instead of being concerned about ourselves, we can think about what others need. In that sense, we have the ``right`` to help others, just as the Good Samaritan did (Luke. 10:30-37). The Bible also teaches, ```Let our people also learn to maintain good works, to meet urgent needs.`` (Titus. 3:14)
Power Belongs to the People. “Self-reliance and Self-responsibility—not tyranny and oppression-are the ultimate “Foundation for True Democracy.” The Gambia is our country and that any problems here can only be solved by us/ourselves within the context of our country and our Gambian Unity. “We should have no fear (of death) because we believe in our country and the good principles on which it was founded”.
IT DOESN’T TAKE GREAT PEOPLE TO DO GREAT THINGS—JUST UNSELFISH ONES.
Today, as the president of our country, you should rather die than lie to Gambians. Being honest with others is vital, but another aspect is equally important—being honest with ourselves.
Rather than position (rank/appointment), than money, than fame, give us truth.
Truth is essential to all our interactions---in the halls of government, the classroom, the workplace, the home. TRUTH-TELLING BUILDS TRUST. As I tell my children, “If you tell a lie about one thing, it will be tough to believe you about anything.” There are hundreds of reasons to support the idea that telling the truth is best for us and for society, but the most vital reason is that it honors God. He who walks with integrity walks securely. The truthful lip shall be established forever. Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord.
Truth cannot be refuted. It never grows old. It never has to be retracted. It never fails. It is the language of God. There is nothing better for us to do than to always tell the truth. There is a saying, “If you know the truth, you can discern what’s false.”
Who wants to be reminded or asked, “…why do you clothe Truth with falsehood, and concealed the Truth, while you have knowledge (of it)? [Surah Al-‘Imraan 3:v71] Nobody! Not even the biggest habitual liar like yourself!
A truthful person has nothing to hide, but the person who lies pays an awful price for his dishonesty. One lie leads to another to cover up the previous one. And eventually the liar is caught in his own web of deceit. An honest person always points out the Truth, and is grateful to Allah; and also acknowledges his own mistakes freely and frankly. Why do we hate your attitudes? There is this observation, “The evil ideas you hold in your mind help to form the facets of your personality that make up the real “you``” When stupid and unnecessary anger lingers in our heart, it poisons all we think and do. You can go through the roof, but for answer, just read on:
Good Government:
All humanity needs Equal Rights, Justice and Perfect Peace. So, naturally, every citizen shows great concern for what makes good government.`` We hate your attitudes because we are concerned about our Gambia, Gambia for all of us. How are we going to achieve what we want? It is our submission that national interest should take precedence over narrow and selfish interests. The Gambia needs a government with a right value.
The qualities needed in a king (of olden / ancient days) still apply to government heads today. Many don’t mention or talk about political philosophy or administrative efficiency. Justice and Fairness matter most.
Leadership is ultimately about taking responsibility for the welfare of others. Good leaders have a responsibility to ensure that the people who repose faith in them are not unnecessarily endangered.
We all know that whenever power or wealth or influence or any good thing is transferred from one person or group of persons to another, it involves added responsibilities to the persons receiving these advantages. They must be the most zealous in truth and all good works, for that is part of the evidence which they give of their service and gratitude. And, besides, their good deeds carry their own rewards.
It is also true that past successes don´t guarantee future victories. Listen to me, everyone, and understand this. JAMMEH! IF YOU’RE NOT AS CLOSE TO YOUR SUBJECTS (Gambians) AS YOU USED TO BE, GUESS WHO MOVED. Everything is possible for him who believe (Mark. 9:23) Even in laughter the heart may ache, and joy may end in grief. The Apostle Paul wrote, ``Let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall`` (Holy-Bible, 1 Cor. 10:12)
THE BEGINNING OF THE END-JAMMEH´s RULE
We do not see the air, but no one doubts that it exists. We think of primroses as the herald of spring. The winds of change of ``the beginning of the end of your rule`` are blowing every direction. However great and glorious human power and grandeur may be, it is only for a time, and it may fade away even before people know of its decline. Work done by men merely on the basis of brute strength or fear, as in the case of you (Yahya JAMMEH), will not endure. Soon it will be nothing but an effete government. For the life of me, I don’t know what exactly possessed you (JAMMEH) to change from what we agreed upon on 22nd July 1994. It is already decided that your (Yahya JAMMEH) APRC-government has been considered a curse.
Rain-water is a good thing in itself, but it does not last, and you can build no solid foundation on it. It is soon absorbed in the earth, and produces the flourishing appearance of grass and vegetation-for a time. Soon these decay, and become as dry as stubble, which the least wind from any quarter will blow about like a thing of no importance. The water is gone, and so is the vegetation to which it lent a brave show of luxuriance temporarily. Such is the “state of your government” today, the water is since gone, which is the sure truth from the very picture of authority of how you treat Gambians.
Yahya JAMMEH-the SELF-MADE! Be careful, less you forget God´s Blessing. The story is told of a millionaire who attended a banquet and sat next to some people who were discussing the subject of prayer. He declared, ``Prayer may be all right for you, but I don´t need it. I worked very hard for everything I have. I didn´t ask God for anything!`` A University president responded, ``Sir, there is one thing you don´t have that you might pray for.`` ``And what might that be?`` asked the man. The educator replied, ``You could pray for humility.``
Yahya Jammeh! We all know you´re blessed with abundance of flocks, Diamonds, Gold, Silver, (and if you like, Bronze),-and all of God´s goodness. Knowing that this could easily lead to a feeling of self-sufficiency, I warn that you must never ever again boast by saying, ``My power and the might of my hand have gained me this wealth.`` (Deuteronomy: 8. 17) When a blessing comes our way, we may think we received it because we deserved it. ``God gives warmth, light, and all the life-giving benefits of the sun to the world´s inhabitants, good and bad alike.`` (Mathew: 5. 45) Many rich people say ``Poor people are lazy.`` What makes people poor? Let us take a clear-eyed view of wealth and poverty. I think ``They are poor because the rich control the system.`` People are poor for various reasons: because of their laziness and drunkenness, but also because the rich oppress them. People get rich for various reasons too: because of hard work, because of the Lord´s blessing, because they cheated.
That is, those who prided themselves on their works in this life, and now find that those works are of no avail. Their loss is all the greater because they had a misplaced confidence in their own deeds or in the assistance of false “witnesses/loyalists.” Fools twist God´s grace to live as they please; the wise trust God´s grace and live as He pleases.
Many people have such a smug sense of self-righteousness that while they go on doing wrong, they think that they are acquiring merit. So, in giving evidence, all the elements that make for outward show or selfishness (as to get some worldly advantage) nullify the deed of good witness. In the same way hypocrites sometimes affect to be surprised that their declared effort for somebody’s good is not appreciated, when they are really seeking some hidden gain or false glory for themselves. The true and sincere are only those who believe in their personal responsibility and always act as in Allah’s sight.
What weight can be attached to works behind which the motives are not pure, or are positively evil and hypocritical? They are either wasted or counted against who seek to pass them off as meritorious!
False motives, pretence, deception, and hypocrisy, flourish because people do not take the higher life seriously. In effect they treat it as a jest!
The fact is that falsehood is falsehood, however much one form of it may support another by delusions.
All hopes founded on iniquity and treachery are vain and illusory. There may be honour among thieves. But there is no honour as between dishonest intriguers, and they are not likely to get any help from any quarter.
Have you noticed that your deliberate lies are being paraded before us in an endless, morals-destroying stream? If truth be not diffused, error will be. If the power of truth is not felt throughout the length and breadth of the land, The Gambia-lies, corruption and darkness will reign.
As we stand against the tide of your corrupt messages being printed and broadcast without restraint, we must proclaim the truth, promote the truth, and live the truth.
I will go on to say that your assertions have no data to rely upon, and I have already emphatically repudiated the idea of returning to read or listen to your lies again and again.
As if at the height of your popularity, as throngs of blind-people were following you, you (JAMMEH) without knowledge, without guidance, and without any Book of Enlightenment began to talk about your spiritual powers, especially powers to cure the killer disease, AIDS, and being in harness with devils! What Baffling Thoughts! If only you can, it’s a big plus to humanity’s advancement in the field of medicine, but more to the Gambia. I think the Gambia can loan you to the countries hard hit with the killer disease, AIDS. But charity begins at home. On a more serious note, JAMMEH, you only want attention. You are only a big fool, inventing things, and attribute them to Allah’s inspiration! It will last for a time, but the rays of Truth and Unity will finally dissipate it. We are too wise to believe such things! To attribute such powers to yourself is a favorite trick of those whose chief stock-in-trade is deception and sorcery and catching the attention of the vulgar by arts adapted to their ignorant minds! What you have is a collection of so-called-healer-marabouts, working behind the curtains. And you take the credits!
Your story is like “an idiot’s tale, full of pride and self-satisfaction, signifying nothing, but the foul air from the braying of the asshole.`` There is not a scintilla of truth in your story/claim.
To be quite polite, I will not hesitate to say that you and your sycophants and stooges of your government are exactly the ever-biggest liars! Perhaps you have been touched with imbecility! You have no idea of truth or sincerity!
Your blind loyalists are singing everywhere of your ``deniable powers.`` (But) when reality finally hit, they would all desert/disown you and flee. There is a saying, “If you are laughing, you laugh with the world, but when you are crying, you do it on your own -alone.”
REAL PEACE
“A man wrapped up in himself makes a very small package.” In Mandinka (dialect); it´s said, “Kebba dibi-kono loola, ni mool mey jeh, iteh ke ifango je lee.”
No money or wealth can buy peace of mind! JAMMEH´s mind is in Search for Peace, Real Peace. Rock guitarist Jimi Hendrix was a wealthy man. And he commanded so much fame. He invited people to bring him peace, real peace. But apparently nobody responded to his startling invitation. When he died from an overdose of drugs, peace, real peace, eluded him.
JAMMEH! Do you know real peace? You are having serious trouble falling asleep. You have already confided in a Marabout that both you and I know, I quote your own words; ``My body is lying down, but my mind keeps sitting up!`` Yes, you cannot sleep because you cannot lie down in real peace, and sleep. What about your wealth? Do you now realise that no amount of wealth can buy a peace of mind? You lacked something. That inner serenity! Period!
JAMMEH! Do you know real peace? Have you discovered, as that rock star did, that fame, money, and self-indulgence don’t bring inner serenity? Then, you need to make another discovery. Have salt in yourself, and be at peace with everybody. Only through a trustful commitment to the truth can you experience peace with yourself. If you clench your fist, no one can put anything in your hand, nor can your hand pick up anything. It´s been said that, « He who cannot forgive others breaks the bridge over which he must pass himself.»
Knowledge of history can be the first step away from anger and bitterness. Truth also leads to reconciliation and healing.
Listen to me, everyone, and understand this. JAMMEH! IF YOU’RE NOT AS CLOSE TO YOUR SUBJECTS (Gambians) AS YOU USED TO BE, GUESS WHO MOVED. Everything is possible for him who believe (Mark. 9:23) Even in laughter the heart may ache, and joy may end in grief. Open your heart in truth to tolerance and peace, inviting people to come into your life and take control of your fears. You are the Captain of the Ship of State. You could change the direction now, before it´s too late. Appoint a body; a ``Council of Wise Elders`` around you, to help you bring back the Ship of State from the rocks. I mean sincere and incorruptible counsellors in matters of State concerns. Then, underneath all of life’s agitation, you can know the peace of God---the very tranquillity of Heaven in the depths of your soul. PEACE FLOODS THE SOUL WHEN TRUTH RULES THE HEART.
Death will find you out…. Where is that (``your``) Holy Qur´an that you always carry with you? Who gave it to you? He is to blame. I now refer you to Surah 62 (Al-Jumu´ah): ´´The likeness of those who were entrusted with the (obligation of the Tauraat/Toorah) (i.e. to obey its Commandments and to practice its laws), but who subsequently failed in those (obligation), is as the likeness of a DONKEY (in Mandinka, Jabiyongo-Ba) which carries huge burdens of books (but understands nothing from them) How bad is the example of people who deny the ayaat (proofs, evidences, verses, signs, revelations, etc.) of Allah. And Allah guides not the people who are Zaalimuun (wrongdoers)´´
Have you (JAMMEH) forgotten Allah’s Statement in the Holy-Qur’an: “Wherever you are, Death will find you out, even if you are in towers built up strong and high!...” If you (JAMMEH) fear death, you will not by fear escape death; it will find you out wherever you are, even if you build for yourself underground bunkers and inter-connecting trenches [(from Banjul to Kanilai and across the borders to Cassamance: MFDC HQs, G/Conakry and Morrocco)] and as well towers built up to the skies. Death will find you out…. JAMMEH, your personal defenses are nothing but the spider and his web that Allah referred to in the Holy-Qur’an: “The parable of those who take protectors other than Allah is that of the spider, who builds (to itself) a house; but truly the flimsiest of houses is the Spider’s house;-if they but knew.” (Surah 29: v41) JAMMEH, your (so-called) defenses-it is the most flimsy defense on earth! It is much easier to dislodge you (JAMMEH) than to kill a housefly. Just as the Americans say, “It’s a piece of cake!” It is my firm conviction that as I always say, ``We do not need to have a dead JAMMEH. We want him alive.`` The best thing to give your enemy is forgiveness. Ordinarily People are enjoined to bear with patience and return good for evil. But there are occasions when human feelings get the better of our wise resolutions, or when, in a state of conflict or war, we return “as good as we get”. Here, I´ll mean, ``No Revenge Intended, but Forgiveness.`` The Gates of Evil are many, but the goal of good is peace. Men may mock, but Allah’s Truth will come to its own: the world’s plots have no power to defeat it. Truth is as a godly tree, with firm roots, spreading branches, and perennial fruit.
Let you continue to build your flimsiest defenses and towers even up to the skies. In Mandinka, we have it, ``Doko mim beh nyaa soola, nyaa buka woojeh,`` meaning, ``The stick that will poke (into) the eyes, the eyes can never see that.`` Build more towers! Continue also to bring all and any new foreign faces and MFDC fighters into the Gambian State House and (your) Kanilai Sindola Home, that won’t stop Gambians, they will only find you, ``smoke you`` (a term I borrowed from TheGambiaEcho…) and chase you as naked as the needle out of the State House (Banjul or Kanilai)—for you´re a coward! As to life, Allah gave it and a coward is not likely to save it.
In addition, the day of your account will come eventually. For the Good and Truth must ultimately triumph.
The Supreme Gift of Wisdom
The Supreme Gift of Wisdom is “First, Learn to listen.”
Wisdom is above all practical and down to earth. Young people, old people, married couples, singles, as well as leaders and followers can and should have it. Wisdom teaches you how to live honorably. It combines understanding and discipline---the kind of discipline that will make you a good mother and loyal house wife. It also adds a healthy dose of good common sense---except that common sense isn’t, and never has been, common.
How do you become a wise person? You must first begin to listen. Wisdom is freely available to those who will stop talking and start paying attention---to God and His Word, to parents, to your spouse, to wise counselors. Anybody can become wise. But becoming wise requires self-discipline to study and humbly seek wisdom at every opportunity.
Pride only breeds quarrels, but Wisdom is found in those who take advice.
Temptation says, “Do this pleasant thing; do not be hindered by the fact that it is wrong.”
Trial or Proving says, “Do this right and noble thing; do not be hindered by the fact that it is painful.”
Pride says, “I don’t want to hear it!”
Wisdom says, “You’re close to the edge. Humble yourself. Stop, Listen and Live!”
For me! The longer I’m involved in talking to you, advising you, the more I discover that God is in the rehabilitation business---bringing about personal change.
A CHANGE IN BEHAVIOR BEGINS WITH A CHANGE IN THE HEART.
There is a saying, “Wash yourselves, make yourselves clean.”
If you [and anybody] want to change, you can change. We can swear, “I’ll change,” but nothing ever changes.
That confession could be made by multitudes of people. How difficult it is to change! Whether we want to revolutionize our whole lifestyle or give up certain habits [especially the bad/evil ones…] how hard it is to do that!
Dramatic change, is possible, however, when only we truly open our hearts to our loved ones and God.
A CHANGED LIFE IS THE RESULT OF A CHANGED HEART.
The prides that would entangle us Must not be ignored; If we do not get rid of them They’ll pierce us like a sword.
MASTER YOUR HABITS OR YOUR HABITS WILL MASTER YOU.
In my High School days, a friend and I conducted an experiment. First I cut a length of cotton thread and knotted the ends together to make a loop. Then my friend held up both index fingers. I slipped the thread over them, he pulled them apart, and the thread broke quite easily. Next, we knotted two strands together. These also broke, but it took more effort. However, three strands knotted together couldn’t be broken without cutting into his skin.
Bad habits are like that. It’s been said that, “Habits that begin as cobwebs sometimes end as cables.” If repeated, they become more difficult to break. This applies to lies and deceit….as well as anger and worry.
A BAD HABIT IS LIKE A SOFT CHAIR---EASY TO GET INTO BUT HARD TO GET OUT OF.
We Will Be Masters Of Our Destiny.
It is not by individualism (in party politics) that one prevails; but by unity and wisdom. The broom says, ``Unity is the key! Togetherness is Strength. `` None of us knows what tomorrow holds. Sometimes God’s Will involves walking through ``the valley of the shadow of death.`` At other times we may have to choose the path of hardship and danger because we wish to do what is right, rather than what is easy. WHAT WE CALL ADVERSITY, GOD CALLS OPPORTUNITY.
The old adage has never been more applicable; “UNITED WE STAND, DIVIDED WE FALL and SUFFER.” An all-inclusive and cohesive united front of all Genuine Gambians´ political forces/domains is essential to give our country a fresh start. Our nation needs the injection of a new value system, a different political culture, and a redemptive government. We owe it to ourselves, to future generations and to posterity to stand firm. We will be masters of our destiny. We will not allow the dictator you are to determine the future of our country. We will step up to the plate and free ourselves. We will embark on a revolutionary journey. For us, God willing, at the most opportune time we shall attain a manifest victory.” The struggle continues. But we will melt and beat our weapons into shear ploughs if and only if you (JAMMEH) change your attitudes for a Better Gambia, by putting People, jobs, and fairness at the heart of the Gambia. Jesus, we are told, rode calmly into Jerusalem on a donkey, although a stately war-horse might have better suited the occasion. The crowd had expected much more. We recognize in this that Jesus was a down-to-earth man-leader!
Samuel was virtually a king. He discharged his duties with skill and dedication to both God and the people. He was never selfish. His people rejected him! Samuel demonstrated his godliness by the way he reacted. He was still God´s man, and he would still pray and care for his people.
I once talked to some Gambians you (Jammeh) considers ``Enemies of the Gambia.`` But surprisingly, all of them said, ``We are not against JAMMEH himself but his negative attitude towards change for a better Gambia.`` That´s a foolish pride. We are all prone to a certain amount of pride. It is not wrong to hate especially when we hate what is wrong. Listen to me, everyone, I want you to fully understand this: from the saying that, ``A heart full of love has no room for envy,`` I will say, I never could hate JAMMEH [in person], rather, it’s his present “attitude” towards Gambians [nowadays.]---that I hate! That´s true for every Gambian. A BAD HABIT IS LIKE A SOFT CHAIR---EASY TO GET INTO BUT HARD TO GET OUT OF. INNER ATTITUDES CAN DESTROY YOU.
1.It’s not wrong to hate when we hate what is wrong.
2.It’s possible that hatred can be a comfort when the alternative is grief.
IF WE DO NOT HATE EVIL, WE CANNOT LOVE GOOD.
THE ONLY WAY TO MAKE THINGS RIGHT IS TO ADMIT THAT YOU’VE BEEN WRONG. DOING WHAT IS RIGHT TODAY MEANS NO REGRETS TOMORROW.
It takes years to build a reputation---and just a moment of indiscretion to destroy it.
We deplore the use of force or violence by those who are in power not by peoples’ consent but through coercive means. As Gambians we are guaranteed to be winners. The State has an obligation to protect the citizenry and to respect the fundamental human rights, including the civil and political liberties of the people. How would The Gambians respond to these needs? In fulfillment, we call the JAMMEH government for the removal of peace and happiness obstacles:
1.Mountains of leadership hubris and abuse must be leveled.
2.Valleys of human needs must be filled for a future fair for all.
3.Crooked, immoral and injustice paths must be straightened.
4.Rough places of oppression and political humbug must be made smooth.
5.The unilateralists´ walls of intransigency must be brought down to open way for National dialogue, forgiveness, unity and reconciliation.
6.The barbed-wires on doors of Freedom of Expression must be cleared.
7.The Anti-personnel political-landmines in the fields of Peoples´ Rights to Freedom of Assembly and Association, and Freedom of Movement must be cleared.
8.Obstacles to students and teachers’ freedom and teaching mobility must be removed.
9.The Presidential term limit must be ONLY two terms of 4/5 years.
10.As (Rtd. Col.) Samsudeen Sarr said, ``Sabari.`` It’s the president’s prerogative to pardon prisoners. We ask that you release all political prisoners and detainees without conditions on humanitarian grounds.
11.We do not want any further polls in our country under the current constitutional and electoral framework. We want a new people-driven democratic constitution, electoral law reforms and legislative changes that allow for the holding of free and fair elections.
12.Assuredly I say to you, the best thing you can do for yourself today and our country is to appoint a ``Council of Wise Elders.`` ``HE IS NO FOOL WHO GIVES WHAT HE CANNOT KEEP TO GAIN WHAT HE CANNOT LOSE!`` Accept God´s free gift of peaceful administration today! It´s the only way of peace. You will not loose your position and hold on the throne. What may seem to be loss will prove, by God´s grace, to be gain.
There’s no better time than right now to “apologize” or “offer forgiveness,” and to quickly restore a (our) priceless relationship with Gambians and humanity. JAMMEH! What keeps you from taking care of [your] anger immediately? HE WHO CONQUERS HIS ANGER CONQUERS A STRONG ENEMY. You are an enemy to yourself. You don´t trust your own shadow, not even your own mother. You can sacrifice your own mother for just the opportunity to stay in power. That´s the present level of your insecurity.
History teaches us about selfish leaders and that in many parts of the world ``The Disputes`` are actuated by nothing but the(ir) desire for self-glory and self-aggrandizement. Their desire is not likely to receive fruition, but others should take warning from it, and you (JAMMEH) are the most who can benefit from such a timely warning.
The Making Of A FOOL! Even a genius can be one. ``As a dog returns to its vomit, so a fool repeats his folly.`` (Proverbs: 26:11) Fools, in modern English, are people who lack brains. But the word has a different meaning in my head. Fools may have high IQs. People may admire their reputation for success. Yet a wise person views them as a disaster.
One of society´s worst insults is ``YOU FOOL!`` People become fools by ignoring the wisdom God offers them, preferring to follow the crowd or their own conceited opinions. They may think themselves very clever, but their cleverness will someday land them in trouble.
I aim my sharpest warnings, not against Jammeh, but against anybody becoming a fool. If you develop such a character, no set of rules can keep you out of trouble. A wise person ought to learn to recognize a fool from far away, and stay out of his or her path.
Be wise! I have given you my mind because I equally love our country like any other. Do something quick before the Ship of State hits the rocks!
Is there anybody, friend or family member trying to give you a wise word of correction today? Is there guidance in the Constitution (Law) that you´ve been ignoring? Pride says, ``I don´t want to hear it.`` Wisdom says, ``You´re close to the edge. Humble yourself. Stop, listen, and live longer!``
What are the most important national problems facing The Gambia? How would The Gambians respond to these needs? The State has an obligation to protect the citizenry and to respect the fundamental human rights, including the civil and political liberties of the people.
It is not by individualism (in party politics) that one prevails; but by unity and wisdom. The broom says, ``Unity is the key! Togetherness is Strength. ``
For the Gambia our homeland…
There’ll always be a Gambia
And Gambia shall be free,
If Gambia means so much to you
As Gambia means to me.
Gambia, my beloved Fatherland, of whom
I am so proud.
The Gambians like: “Themselves,” “Me,” and “Everybody!”
LIFE’S TRIALS SHOULD MAKE US BETTER---NOT BITTER.
A man destined to be a messenger of Allah is yet a man, and must pass through the ups and downs of life like any other man: only he will do it with more grace and distinction than other men.
The Biblical book of Proverbs reminds us, ``The ear that hears the rebukes of life abide among the wise. He who disdains instruction despises his own soul, but he who heeds rebuke gets understanding.`` (Prov. 15:31-32). If paraphrased, I´d say that ``The stubborn ear that refuses to hear good advice will always go into the grave with the head.`` Jammeh, I need only your ear! That´s all I need from you. I am no politician, you know that from Day1! A Revolutionary though, I am now a ``2nd-Imam`` (Imam Al-Hassan) in a Mosque. I also go to Church! (If you like, Pastor Sam.) I am not concerned about a powerful personal image. As a true Believer, I seek not to satisfy people’s false image of me, but to please God. My weekly schedule always takes me on a tour of Asylum Camps/Offices, WW1&2 Concentration Camps and the prisons (not Mile II), where I speak with the inmates. I love this so much! I hope to do the same for Mile II, Insha-Allah. A change of life begins with a change of heart. A jail is a school-university, meant to be a correction centre. ``To get to Paradise, you may have to pass through Hell.`` Today-My life moves along contentedly in well-worn grooves. One man once said to me; “The God of hope [will] fill you with all joy and peace.” (Romans: 15.13) I am not bitter or pessimistic. There is sunshine in my soul today, More glorious and bright Than glows in any earthly sky, For Allah is my Light. LASTING HAPPINESS DOESN’T COME FROM SUNNY DAYS BUT FROM THE ALMIGHTY ALLAH. The sun that hardens clay to brick Can soften wax to shape and mold; So too life’s trials will harden some, While others purify as gold. LIFE’S TRIALS SHOULD MAKE US BETTER---NOT BITTER.
The apostle Peter said, ``Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tender-hearted, be courteous; not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing.`` (1 Peter : vv. 8-9)
As-Salaamu ´Alaikum wa Rahmatullah wa Barakatuhu.
Captain Sana-Bairo SABALLY
(DEUTSCHLAND)
Sat 1st May, 2010
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Comments
In the service of The Gambia I remain
I appreciate your concern,but if the idiot in question revived a dead segment and thinking that he/she will use synonyms or leftside language then,he/she must me very ignorant of me,and once again if the idiot say anything about the past i will use whatever i want to use and no disrespect to you,but just making people understand that let bygone be bygone,because we all have access to the WWW. and can do whatever we want to do ,and i am going to be vigilant until i see any indirect shots towards me coming from this idiot,till then all cylenders are open to ut this idiot i check,an if he/she want to talk to me be man enough with balls and tell me,or else i will go ballistic..
You people must have too much energy to waste. Just like all the murderous-barbaric characteristics yaya's shows, you are supposed to know his supporters better. Somebody I can't quite remember said it here before & I quote, "Show me your leader, I will tell you who you are". I personally believe yaya & supporters are ‘potatoes in same bag', in complicit murder, harassment, kidnappings, torture, drug deals, corruption, twisting & fabricating evidences, false claims & self expressions, the list goes on. This same intolerance is why yaya& supporters set about physically attacking & killing journalists & critics, set Radio 1 fm & Independent media & journalists’ like Alieu Bah & Ebrima Sankareh’s houses ablaze. Yaya himself does physically murder victims though he may do with those captured/kidnapped, he sent accomplices who are the mafia in support.
(Jollonews am prepared for a -10 rating. ThanX)
We should always remain to challenging such tuggs here never to giving them easy ride on the struggle ! No one should be here trying to condition others to say or not to.
In the service of the Gambia I remain
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