Response To Ndey Jobarteh

Dear Ndey I am responding to your critique in my capacity as NPP Diaspora Group Coordinator and a proud member of the NPP, the party that elected President Barrow to office. Your recent comments regarding President Barrow are indeed striking, particularly given your complete silence during the oppressive years of the Jammeh dictatorship. It’s disheartening to see someone who danced in vibrant traditional attire while our people suffered under tyranny now take a radical stance against the very democracy we fought to attain.

You’ve been noticeably absent from the struggle when our compatriots faced killings and torture, choosing instead to engage in cultural activities while the Gambian people endured unimaginable hardship. The contrast between your past actions and your current criticisms raises questions about your commitment to the welfare of our nation and its citizens. It’s no secret that your recent radicalization seems rooted in personal disappointment—particularly after your hopes of securing a job or a consulate position in Scandinavia fell through. You and your group attempted to organize a "Gambian House," which was met with rightful scrutiny from the Norwegian government, highlighting that you were not qualified for such a role. It’s troubling to see how dashed ambitions have led you to engage in undermining our government and promoting discontent among the electorate Your aim appears to create discord, and we must draw a line at allowing anyone to poison the minds of our people for personal gain. President Barrow’s statements have been in line with what many see as valid expressions of the challenges we face today. He is not threatening anyone; rather, he is calling attention to the misuse of democracy that has turned many into loud activists with little regard for constructive dialogue. While we appreciate your past contributions, we will not tolerate attempts to distort the reality of our democratic progress in the Gambia or attacks on PresidentAdamaBarrow who is working tirelessly to maintain peace and stability. Yes, President Barrow has his faults, as do all leaders, but he has brought us a greater measure of freedom compared to the days of oppression we once lived through. As encouraged as you might feel to amplify dissent, we—and many others—will steadfastly defend our party and our president against the fabrications and divisive rhetoric that threaten to tear apart the fabric of our democracy. peace time heroes will not be allow to control the narratives of our struggle posing as if they were there during the dark days. Eid Mubarak to you all. Yaya Dampha NPP Coordinator in the Diaspora