The parties exist because they're different in people and/or ideas - absolutely ok!

20 years and counting we pour all our eggs in the idea that collapsing these parties into one at least for the purpose of elections is our only (at least the best strategy). Notice that as we are working on that new parties were formed namely Mai's ' Henry's and Waa's. That is very telling the idea in theory may be ok but is not practical because there is no earthly common goal all Gambians (or those in opposition) should be in one party.

1) Can we let the parties do whatever they want including whether to form unions. Let them continue to participate in elections as they see fit

2) let us talk to each other as citizens of The Gambia to demand our equal equity of the republic - that's creating an environment no one is above or below another. A Republic!

3) this includes all citizens regardless of party or no party. The role of individuals/groups in these efforts will be purpose and expertise specific

4) this approach has no reason to wait for a new president or government - the work starts right away and will most likely continue in the event of a new government or president. Don't tell me Yahya will/will not agree - with the right political leverage he has no choice.

5) this will eliminate some people working day and night to convince someone to drop his/her life long ambition to become president. At the same time it guarantees that we all have equal opportunity to become anything our free citizens choose

6) why wouldn't you want a true republic? This is what this approach tries to create; sure it will not be an overnight flip but remember whatever we were working on is 20 years and counting already. This approach is also anchored on 'the people/citizens' as opposed to 'casting the image of our collective belonging on the image of an individual'. I want to think that no Gambian will be oppose to this concept if understood. Let me know if you oppose this concept and not the process. There is still room to debate the best processes.......The Republic Is A Given!

Burama