The case for a United Opposition is the strongest case put forward in the
war against the APRC. Such an incubator idea would have had the opportunity
of not only uniting the opposition, but setting up a formidable force ( note
the use of the past tense), against which the ruling APRC would have a
teething battle. Why i'm i using the past when describing this ideal
arrangement? The postponement of the UDP to attend the ALD meetings, which,
by the way, is the ground for discussions aimed at finally uniting the
opposition, is a big blow to the success of any coalition among the
opposition parties. Why? Simple, the UDP is the leading opposition in
Gambian politics. It's presence by itself sends a message of hope to the
anti-Jammeh camp. It is common knowledge that the non-participation of the
UDP in any talks geared towards fostering a coalition is a failed
enterprise. Therefore, the entire issue of uniting the opposition is a far
reaching fantasy.
It is my understanding that the only reasons advanced by the UDP is the fact
that the party leadership is to make sure that the registration exercise
goes accordingly. Tell me, is Darboe personally going from registartion
centre to registration centre  making sure all is well? Couldn't Waa Juwara
take care of business, or any other party big wig, for that matter? The
Gambian opposition and indeed the organisers of this event deserve a better
explanation. This excuse is totally incomprehensible.
The Agency responsible for the registration exercise, Independent Electoral
Commission (IEC), should be a trusted agency capable of handling the simple
task of registering voters. In this case, the UDP leadership is doubting
such capability on the part of this ageny, and please note, this same agency
oversees the entire voting process, counting and declaring the winner. You
do not trust them in registering voters, but will trust them with the votes
casted, counting them and determining the next President.
A brother talked about the simple procedure of delegating responsibility.
Sure this could be some asset the UDP can use. Is Darboe the brain and the
be-it-all?
Another issue bothering me is the fact that such a principled party as PDOIS
may not fall for the idea of a united opposition. PDOIS believes in the
enlightenment of the voter, and them having the choice of choosing
representatives based on their message and plan of action designed for the
Gambia. Can you imagine Sidia Jatta rallying behind Ousainou Darboe simply
because Yahya is to be defeated at all cost? Ugh, i cannot see that
happening.
This drive, from my perspective is only to strengthen UDP and, to fund it
for the elections. Nothing wrong with this. Afterall elections are all about
money. But the idea of a united opposition is slowly growing dim and dimmer
by the minute. One need not be an expert to see the weaknesses of the
mechanics in place.

My thoughts for now,
Harona.


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