The opposition has come to a strategic fork in the road. One path leads 
to a future in which the struggle strengthens its grip on those factors 
that are favorable and promising for future success. One that 
encompasses each and every element of the opposition within and out of 
the country. The other path, an unchanging continuation of the 
oppositions’ prior strategies, is narrower.
While the better course may seem obvious, it involves complex issues, 
many of which were discussed here on the forum prior to what I call the 
most nerve wrecking election in the Gambia, October 18. Some strikingly 
demonstrative pointers were brought up, only to be discarded as 
irrelevant by those intended to benefit from. Had they paid attention 
to some of these issues, there might have been more progress made. 
According to numbers we saw on October 19, virtually 48% of the voting 
population - those to be reckoned with, I must add - favor the 
opposition. This should not be taken for granted in the coming 
parliamentary election. Strategists will tell you that to regain the 
confidence level of those who voted for the opposition in the 
presidential elections will not be an easy task for the opposition. 
Even more daunting will be to add to that level of confidence to gain 
majority that is needed to fight for the oppositions’ agenda in the 
next parliament. Based on historical facts relating to Gambian 
elections, one can clearly see why it will be twice as difficult for 
the opposition. Signals showing possible drifts amongst the opposition 
ranks, UDP especially, will be making it even more intimidating for the 
opposition. The presidential election results will undoubtedly create a 
heavy burden for the opposition strategically.
To help resolve the strategic issues faced at this time, there one 
promising way out – a united opposition. This should not be a harrowing 
task for any of the various opposition units. Clearly, they do not have 
to worry about having to select a common leader. All they have to worry 
about is to be able to campaign on a common platform and a common goal 
of occupying majority of seats in the next parliament. This, comrades, 
should be the ultimate strategy of the opposition. With an opposition 
majority in the house, the voices of reason will be heard loud and 
clear. No qualms there. Jammeh can twist and turn all he wants his 
actions will only help amplify to the whole world the type of 
degenerated tyrant he has become.
We in the Diaspora have a role to play. I think Messrs. Sambou and 
Johnson are right on the spot on what we should do next. The move has 
to be made by the various opposition leaders as soon as possible.

Abdoulie A. Jallow
(Bamba Laye)    
 
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