Comrades:

The recent presidential election in The Gambia
is clearly an indication that we cannot shoot from
a long distance while the APRC is using every leverage at
its disposal.  We have contributed to the brain
drain scenario.  We must find other alternatives
in dealing with the APRC.

I hope we come to the realization that we cannot
sit around and enjoy the comfort of western
capitalism, while those who genuinely and
courageously fought the rights of all are struggling
to feed their families.  We cannot continue to
argue without engaging realistically in getting our
country back.  I hope we remember that our decision
to fight for democracy is an inherent doctrine that
we must proudly guard.  I hope we also respect the
decision of The Gambian people and engage the APRC
in fair dealing.  The APRC has a right to lead, and
it must deliver its promises to The Gambia.  We must
not be part of politics of indifference.  We hope
the APRC succeeds in leading The Gambia people.  We also
have a right tell The Gambian people that the APRC has
failed if it cannot deliver the goods.

While I remain adamant in my opposition to the
APRC government, I affirm my respect to the
office of the presidency of The Gambia. I hope those                       in power will respect my right to criticize.
This new cricitism I affirm, will be base on the
true foundation of democratic means.  I will
serve to fight for tolerance, rule of law,
consistency and respect of political disagreements.
I will be a loyal opposition, and I am proud to
affirm that I will not be a prisoner of thoughts
in speaking the truth.

In a few months, we will be seeking solutions in
embracing a person of character who can constructively
engage the APRC government in politics of reality.
We must have a person who is willing to understand
those deep rooted policies of politics.  Those of us who
are talking and relentlessly cannot stop, must evaluate
realistically in inquiring with reasonable assurance our
duty to lead.  I hope when that time comes, God serves me
with wishdom to inquire this sacred responsibility.

We must come out of the closet and advocate a new
kind of politics.  We must not repeat the mistakes of
political indifference.  We must be willing to
lead and respectfully tell our leaders that the
time has come for Gambians abroad to lead the
opposition.  We must never let our emotions guard
us in dealing with the APRC.

The Gambia is our country.  We alone can make this
dream a reality.  We are one.  We must remain one.
The APRC has a right to lead.  I hope the APRC can
also give us the right to be part of a genuine
opposition.

In conclusion I say respectfully, "A mind is a terrible
thing to waste."

Naphiyo,

Comrade M.L. Jassey-Conteh
Greensboro, NC/Kombo East Contituency

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