In a message dated 10/26/99 1:37:15 PM Central Daylight Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:

 Dr. Saine and those attending,

 It is regrettable that I would not make it these meetings. However, I would
 like those present to ask him to publicly explain to the Gambian people:

 Why he, as the Army Chief of Staff and one who lived a generous life off the
 Gambian people for over 30yrs, chose to abandon his oath to protect and
 defend the constitution of the Gambia and the Gambian people, to the mercy
 of a bunch of disgruntle boy soldiers?

 And of course why he thinks that he should not stand trial in Gambian courts
 for incompetence and derelict of duty?

 Malanding Jaiteh
  >>
Malanding,

On your first question, l think that choice was made for him, and thank God
he did not try to present any defense in the form of another invading army
like the Senegalese ones back in 1981. The only ones who would have suffered
would be the ordinary folk who had already been abused enough from 30 years
worth of neglect, corruption  and incompetence, and which has continued
unfortunately.

On the issue of standing trial, that would be a waste of tax payer's money,
and exile in one's golden age is a hard lesson enough. Graceful retirement
long ago would have resulted in Sir Dawda enjoying a more respectful old age
in his native land, and amongst his people  than exile, but alas, the desire
to cling to power ends up making loosers of those who govern as well as the
governed. l hope the lesson is not wasted.Rumour has it that a goodly number
of members of his former administration are actually dreaming of the day they
"get back", and l hope that God almighty saves The Gambia from such an
occurrance.l would definitely like to ask him what he thought he has
accomplished for Gambia in 30 years of his administration.

Jabou Joh

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