Comrades:

As The Gambia reaches 8 years under Jammeh, our country becomes the most indebted nation in Africa.  How can this happen?  Well, Jammeh and the APRC government exhibited total disregard of fiscal responsibility.

In earmarking development projects, a government is faced with three choices: (1) externally generated debt financing through borrowing, (2) internally generated debt financing through borrowing, or (3) raising capital through proper economic planning, thus giving merchants leverage to export more products or services,while keeping a keen eye on imports.  The latter financing structure if done proprerly will raise living standards because of competitive foces within.

Well, as it stands, the APRC government's most talked about development projects is further sinking our country into economic ruin.  The APRC government has incurred  external long-term debt, thus crippling our economy and further devaluing the Dalasi.  It is indicative to stress that the long-term debts are denominated in foreign currecny equivalents.  In such a case, the payable portions are denominated in foreign currency.  As it stands today, the Dalasis is roughly D20.23 to the US Dollar.  What happened since July 22, 1994 when the Dalasi stood at roughly D8.75 per US Dollar?  It is fair to state that improper fiscal outlays and lack of proper economic planning are the culprits to such problems.  It is further fair to say that the APRC does not want to listen to moderate voices within its rank.  Because of this I announce today my resignation from the APRC/NCP marriage.

To make things worst, the government has just bought a Jet Fighter.  This is the most serious blow to our economy.  What is the point of engaging in political marriage with a government that chooses to ignore even the basic elements of engagement?  What is the purpose of a Jet Fighter in The Gambia when our per capita is roughly $390?  Why ignore the plight of the farmers?  Will the Jet Fighter be used to frighten the opposition?  Will Jammeh rule The Gambia forever?

In searching for truth and reconciliation, I am today reaching out to those in the opposition.  I am stating emphatically that I apologize to anyone who I might have offended in my brief inter-marriage with the APRC government.  I cannot beyond political reality forget about improper fiscal responsibility that our country is in.  I cannot accept the fact that a Jet Fighter is needed in The Gambia.  I cannot further trust a government that passed a media bill that will curtail free speech.

We in the opposition must come to the understanding that we should emulate policies we unilaterally share.  It is high time that we forgot the differences that further divide us.  The Gambia is our country.  Our obligation is to unite and advocate a policy of change.  We no longer should be divided because the further we are, the further our country sinks into economic ruin.

In searching for truth and reconciliation, we must also be civil in our engagement.  We must give respect to the office of the presidency, while speaking the truth.


Naphiyo,
Comrade ML Jassey-Conteh
Greensboro, NC/Komnbo East Contituency

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