THE TRADITIONAL ROLE OF WOMEN IN OUR SOCIETY IS TO BECOME A MOTHER?

At home they are to do all sorts of household chores like cooking, washing, cleaning, harvesting etc. Role of Women in Society The role of women in society has been greatly overseen in the last few decades but now are coming to a more perspective to people. In the early days women were seen as wives who were intended to cook, clean, and take care of the kids. They were not allowed to vote while men took care of having jobs and paying any bills that had to be paid. Soon enough it caught on that women should have a bigger role than what other people thought women should have. They faced discrimination like and other race that faced it. Women would voice their opinion in any way possible so that they could reach their goal and they did.

Gender equality is, first and foremost, a human right. A woman is entitled to live in dignity and in freedom from want and from fear. Empowering women is also an indispensable tool for advancing development and reducing poverty. Empowered women contribute to the health and productivity of whole families and communities and to improved prospects for the next generation. The importance of gender equality is underscored by its inclusion as one of the eight Millennium Development Goals. Gender equality is acknowledged as being a key to achieving the other seven goals. Yet discrimination against women and girls - including gender-based violence, economic discrimination, reproductive health inequities, and harmful traditional practices - remains the most pervasive and persistent form of inequality. Women and girls bear enormous hardship during and after humanitarian emergencies, especially armed conflicts. There have been several organizations and institutions advocating for women, promoting legal and policy reforms and gender-sensitive data collection, and supporting projects that improve women's health and expand their choices in life.

Men have a tendency to leave their wives due to the fact that they had their child and the father was not committed enough or not ready to be a “father.” Women are faced with more responsibly than men but also are faced with a lot more problems than men because they look a woman as a bearer of children. It is a fact that men shouldn’t abuse their wives and its true, but they still are. Abortion is also another problem that women are faced with. Morality is an issue with this as women are sometimes not ready to be a mother and their husbands or boyfriends have already left them. Men usually just walk away from the situation but women have to choose to either have the baby or have it “aborted”.

Today women are playing important role in all spheres of life. They are no longer confined within the four walls of their parents' or husbands house. They have come out of the kitchens and are working hand in hand with men in all the development programs of the government. By receiving higher education they are becoming pilots, doctors, engineers, hospitality professionals, teachers, administrators etc. They have been able to prove their worth. They not only do their household work but also work outside of their houses. They are contributing much to the economy of the country. Now it has come to the realization of the men that true development of the country is not possible keeping half of population idle at home. So it needs no telling that women are playing a great role in the socioeconomic condition of our country. Women have made vast improvements in their lifestyles in the past few decades from holding positions in governments to simple things like getting a job and supporting themselves.

BY. SAIDINA ALIEU JARJOU

Alias Dr.ABS Taal Jr.

CASSAMANCE THE UNTOLD STORYPART (2)

The Casamance region is in the southern region of Senegal which, although connected in the East to Senegal, is separated from the rest of Senegal by the Gambia. The Casamance Conflict is a low-level conflict that has been waged between the Government of Senegal and the Movement of Democratic Forces of Casamance (MFDC) since 1982.

History reveal that Cassamance was once colonized by the Portuguese before they moved to Guinea Bissau as Senegal was colonized by the French likewise The Gambia too by Britain.

The Portuguese signed a document with the people of Cassamance stating their regaining of independence from Protugal. When the Portuguese left for Bissau, the people of Senegal then advised the people of Cassamance to give up their documents in order to join together and form one government till later, since Cassamance lacks the expertise and know how on running a nation. Which the people of Cassamance did without as per request since they are neighbors.

After a while, renowned freedom fighters by the names Emil Bajan &JamakunSenghore realized that there was once an agreement as per the handing over of documents for the freedom and the liberation of Cassamance for independence. Both Emil Bajan and Labe Jamakun Senghoreasked about the wear about of the document to the Senegalese President then Abdou Joof in order to facilitate the Independence of Cassamance. During the struggle for the freedom and independence of cassamance at the initial stage, Emil Badjan was injected which results to his death, as he was challenging the Senegalese to give him the signed documents. Then,  Labe Jamakun Senghore also took up the challenge and struggled extremely hard for Cassamance and its people to regain Freedom and Independence as per the agreement made by the Purtuguesetoo. In the struggle he was seen as a treat to the Senegalese too and that also lead to his death. As a result to which inspired the people of Cassamance fighting for their independence remains an untold story in Africa.

 

Abdou Joof

In 2006, there exists a bilateral agreement between the President of Senegal, then Abdoulie Wade and the rebel group with the object of laying down arms and join together to form one great Senegal. But then, some of the rebels thought it wasn’t a great idea to abide by the proposal brought forward by the Senegalese government which led to division among the rebel groups as they have different aims and objectives in the struggle. Those various divided groups were led by Sirlif Sarjo, Kamugai Jatta, and Paul Sambou etc. But among all groups, the one led by Sirlif Sarjo became the strongest group with the strongest motive of leading Cassamance to independence at all cost resulting to war for decades. Sirlif became the headache of the Senegalese since he stands firm and mastermind the revolution that is still fighting for the liberation of Cassamance with his rebel group named MFDC.

Salif Sarjo

Sirlif is a reasonable man who drew my attention the day he released about eleven arrested Senegalese soldiers during the brutal invasion. The event was then witnessed by the Gambian government under the leadership of President Yahya A.J.J. Jammeh and Amnesty International. He spoke at length about the purpose of their existence claiming that the Senegalese government only sent the natives of Cassamance residing in the Senegalese forces to invade Cassamance resulting to brothers picking up arms and fighting against each other. Sirlif further stated that since the rebellion was formed, known of the international Medias went to Cassamance to ask about what conspired between them and the Senegalese people but rather depends on the information provided by the Senegalese which he strongly advocated that would not end the war in Cassamance. He also opened rooms for dialogue to end the long existing chaos that Cassamance is subjected to for decades.

This war between the rebels of Cassamance and the government of Senegal started long since and the cassamance people would never stop until they regain what rightfully belongs to them. Who feels it, knows it, the people of Cassamance are subjected to pain and agony, brutality and corruption from the Senegalese government. Some days in history, the Senegalese government invaded Cassamance capturing and killing innocent women and children calling them rebels, burning down houses to ash, destroying their animals, louting their resources and other sources of living. This is when the revolution was mastermind by Sirlif to protect the integrity of the people of Cassamance and they revolved against the Senegalese forces which lead to the death of many. The Cassamance story is very sad as a good number of people lost their lives and property, thanks to the Senegalese government for their brutality, subjecting innocent women and children to vacate seeking for refuge in nearby countries.

The real trick to good governance is to place the needs of the masses above everything else; to lead not just with words but with action. Actions define priorities. It’s the only way politicians can successfully bring us the long sought dividend of democracy.It is time for all Africans to come up with tangible solutions in order to safe Cassamance. What this tomorrow looks like depends on our action today.

But using our voices on paper, exercising our power and demanding action through nonviolence can help restore peace in Cassamance.NOW !!.

By: Saidina Alieu Jarjou

Alias Dr.ABS Taal Jr.

PRESIDENTIAL MEMO

To:                 The President of the Republic of  The  Gambia

              Cc:                 The Chairman Independent Electoral commission

              Cc:                 Minister of Interior

              From:             Saidina Alieu Jarjou, the Ghetto Spokesperson

  Date:               03rd March, 2017

            

             Re:                 REQUEST FOR THE INMATES TO VOTE?

I take this golden opportunity to congratulate you on your victory and celebration of the independence of our dear mother land under your visionary leadership in the smiling coast.

Your Excellency Sir, being the chief servant of the Gambian people. I think that it is quiet important to bring to your attention issues that will make The Gambia huge. As per your philosophy “one Gambia, one people, and one nation”.

You Excellency, once again may I remind you that there are many inmates in various prisons across the countries who are Gambians. I deem it necessary for them to take part in the fourth coming parliamentary election since they are Gambians too.

The inmates encompass a large portion of the population, whom are not represented since they don’t vote for the person of their choice who shall represent them at such important tradition such as Presidential, Parliamentary and Councillorship. In other to make The Gambia the last place of hope on earth.

Your Excellency, I am appealing to you and your administration to make a SWOT analysis and a feasibility   study to access the impact of my request as per the voting of the inmates.

The Gambia belongs to us The Gambians both those home and abroad, and by putting our thoughts on paper we shall reach at a solution.

Finally I take this superb prospect to thank you on your dynamic headship style in ensuring all Gambians the freedom of expression.

Thank you

Sincerely

Saidina Alieu Jarjou

The Ghetto Spokesperson

MEMO: TO ALL TRAFFIC POLICE OFFICERS

MEMO

To:       All Traffic Police Officers

From:   Saidina Alieu Jarjou

Date:   06^th February, 2017  

                                         

RE:TRAFFIC POLICE OFFICERS MISCONCEPTION OF NO PARKING/STOPPING?

Please be reminded that as part of your duties being generally charged with the apprehension of criminals, the prevention and detection of crime, protection and assistance of the general public, and the maintenance of public order.

Some police officers are also  trained in special duties, such as counter-terrorism, surveillance, child protection, VIP protection, civil law enforcement, and investigation techniques into major crime including fraud, rape, murder, and drug trafficking. Although many police officers wear a corresponding uniform, some police officers are plain-clothed in order to dissimulate as ordinary citizens.

It is in that regards I write to remind you that there is an urgent need to understand the difference between no stopping and no parking.

A "NO PARKING" sign means you can't park, but you can drop off or pick up passengers or goods without leaving your vehicle (i.e. you must be within three meters of your vehicle). You must attend to your business promptly (within two minutes of stopping your vehicle).

A “NO STOPPING” signs mean that you cannot stop for any reason to drop off or pick up passengers, to wait for people to arrive, or to load or unload merchandise.

Many times the drivers are being penalized asper the misinterpretation I therefore appeal to all traffic police to consult a dictionary to be conversant with the above caption to minimize defect.

“The toilets at a local police station have been stolen. Police say they have nothing to go on”. (Ronnie Barker)

    Thank you!!

WHAT MAKES NUSRAT SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL THE BEST IN THE GAMBIA?

Nusrat Senior Secondary School is one of the many educational institutions run in various African countries by the worldwide Ahmadiyya Movement in Islam. Hazrat Mirza Nasir Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih-III (third successor to the Founder of the Ahmadiyya Movement in Islam) laid the foundation on 4th May, 1970.As an internationally renowned centre for excellence, Nusrat attracts a large number of students and teachers from all over the continent.

Nusrat also attracts the best and the brightest students from across the country. Below are some reasons to why should apply to Nusrat Senior Secondary School:

1. Globally renowned: Nusrat is very well-known and renowned school in The Gambia. Students across the country have chosen this school to pursue their desired course ranging from commerce, arts and science. It has a world-class reputation for academic excellence.

2. Accessible to all students: Nusrat is accessible to all students of talent and great minds and abilities, whatever their background. All talented and bright students are eligible to apply to this school. The generous Nusrat school fee ensures that finance should not be a barrier to any students who wants to apply to Nusrat.

3. Teaching through tutorial system: Nusrat is one of such schools in The Gambia that provides teaching through tutorial system. Schools follow this pattern in all departments to impart quality education to students. This pattern enables teachers to give more individual attention while teaching to their students. Teachers offer tailored education to their students (Nusrat part finder).

4. Subject experts: Many teachers at Nusrat are well known experts of their chosen fields. Their engagement with research enables students to have an advanced understanding of their subject discipline. Their knowledge and expertise help students to understand the concepts of their chosen subject well.

5. Experience best school life: School life is one of the greatest assets of the school. Students soon get to know each other and teachers get to know students individually, which enables them to understand their academic requirements and respond to them.

6. Unmatched resource centers: Nusrat provides its students unparalleled resources in support of their studies. The school possesses the finest libraries and laboratories. Students have access to resources across the school: unmatched libraries, sports facilities, laboratories, language-learning opportunities, computer and equipments.

7. Diverse study environment: Nusrat offers a diverse study environment to its students. The School has long experience of helping students settle in, academically and socially, so they are soon able to make notable contribution to their department.

8. Clubs, societies and events: With clubs, societies and events organised by the school, Nusrat has vibrant style that targets all students.

9. Class rooms: Nusrat have the best structures, the class facilities are designed in way that students move freely without disturbance.

10. Excellent employment record: Nusrat has a very excellent graduate employment record. Employers recognize that Nusrats's academic excellence give students various skills, as well as deep understanding in their chosen subjects.

11. No discrimination: It is a co-educational institution without any discrimination based on clan, colour, creed, gender, race or nationality and is run under strict rules of discipline and academic performance.

12. School administration. Under the dynamic leadership of his splendor Mr. Bojang, the administration is designed in a way that motivates both the staff and student to accomplish their mission and vision statement.

“I’m proud to be a Nusraterian and at Nusrat it doesn’t matter who you are, Nusrat School welcomes everyone”

By: Saidina Alieu Jarjou

Alias Dr.ABS Taal Jr.

WHY AFRICA REMAINED THE CONTINENT BEING UNSUCCESSFULLY MANAGED THE PLANET HAS EVER CREATED

Election related violence according to Ladan (2006) could be categorised into physical and psychological. Physical election violence including physical attack, resulting into assault, battery, grievous bodily harm or death, disruption and other campaign, use of abusive language and other forms of violence inflicted on individuals and groups. Psychological election violence include indiscriminate pasting of campaign posters, chanting slogans (particularly the use of local poets and singers to attack and abuse opponents), intimidation of public servants and businessmen for opposing the status quo or the incumbent administration, use of the media (especially state owned) to inflict psychological violence on the opposition and the denial of access to such media by the opposition parties, reckless driving by those in a procession to campaign rallies, which intimidate other road users and the use of traditional ruler to intimidate the masses into electing particular preferred candidates.

Democratization has soared on the continent of Africa. Democracy has been embraced by all and sundry. Democracy has given the power to rule to the people. A fundamental bed rock of democracy is the election of political leaders through the electoral box. (Henry Quaii,2015)

Electoral process gives the citizenry the sole right to elect their preferred political leaders. As if this is not enough, electoral process in Africa have most often been characterized by violence at various stages, from pre-election, during elections and post elections. This electoral process which give rights to the people to govern themselves is been challenged by the threats to security, peace and development.

Electoral violence in an African election can be seen manifested in various forms as physical assaults, arson (the illegal use of fire to destroy a house, building or property), snatching of ballot boxes and murder.

 Can Africa boast of a stable democracy for ones? One might be quick to ask; what are the factors that might instigate all these electoral violence?

Again, it could be captured across the streets of Africa that electoral violence is been instigated as a result of the culture of impunity. The ineffectiveness and malfunctioning of the security forces also give people the impetus to stage electoral violence. The ineffectiveness especially on the part of the police service is a major factor which encourages electoral violence. Pre-electoral violence is often associated with killings but the police service always fails to get to the root of those killings. This failure seems to be creating a culture of impunity and motivation for recurrence of crimes and violence in our society.

Electoral violence is not been met with strong criminal codes in Africa. Weak penalties or punishment for violators of electoral process also give room for more crimes to be committed. Penalties or punishment are intended to achieve correction, retribution and deterrence. Most countries in Africa lack legislation against perpetrators of certain electoral offences. This poses African election to all forms of crimes and violence.

Weak governance and corruption can also instigate electoral violence. Corruption can set the stage for structural violence. Weak governance and corruption make people feel desperate enough to seek any means of revenge against political authority including violence. Small arms proliferation in African countries is on the increase. Possession of arms leads to the perpetuation of violent conflict and the creation of new cycles of violence and crime.

Leadership must come and go the Africa is a continent that should prepares succession through the preparation of second and third layer leadership. I agreed with the position of mystic philosopher of the Zhou dynasty, Lao Tzu, when he said, “To lead the people, you have to walk behind them”.

The real trick to good governance is to place the needs of the masses above everything else; to lead not just with words but with action. Actions define priorities. It’s the only way politicians can successfully bring us the long sought dividend of democracy.

Hence to resolve political violence, accountability, social justice, transparency, rule of law, gender equality and due process must guide governance and leadership in Africa. Electoral reforms must include other things as mass education. There must be some level of education for the citizenry to know who is a registered and considered as an eligible voter under the laws of the land.

I dreamt of Africa that would one day have one currency one President and one government which will preside over this continent. Because in any way we are one, this borders of Africa were imposed on us by the colonizers, we need leaders who are going to lead us to that drain where there would be one Africa.

BY: SAIDINA ALIEU JARJOU 

Alias Dr.ABS Taal Jr.

THE UNTOLD STORY ABOUT THE COALITION GOVERNMENT

The term coalition is derived from the Latin word ‘coalition’ meaning to go or grow together. Thus it means an act of coalescing or uniting into one body or alliance. It indicates the combination of a number of bodies or parts into one body or whole. In the political sense it is used to indicate an alliance or temporary union between various political groups for the exercise or control of political power.

Professor Ogg defines coalition in the Encyclopedia of Social Sciences, as “cooperative arrangements under which distinct political parties or at all events members of such parties unite to form a Government or Ministry”.Thus, it can be said that result of the exigencies of competitive multi-party system in a parliamentary democracy is coalition. It is a phenomenon where more than two political parties come together to form a government , sinking their basic ideological differences in the event of the inability of any single party to command a workable majority in the lower House of the legislature.(Srividya Sastry, 2014)

As there is power sharing, different views of different coalition parties have to be accommodated leading to delay decisions e.g long delay of bills. Coalition politics though representing regional character better, often leads to unstable government, increase horse trading, more corruption. (Mairead Finley, 2012).

The coalition does not provide one party with the power to implement their ideas so the end result is that very few ideas, if any, are implemented because an agreement cannot be reached between parties. The idea behind a coalition government is that it is to be a partnership between parties, and both parties will be treated equal.

Another problem found in a coalition government is that there is a great deal of instability within the government. It is important for coalition governments to set up procedures that can work through conflict and mitigate disputes in order for the coalition partnership to survive. It is difficult to achieve true unity between disparate parties, leading to little action from the government.

Coalition government is actually less democratic as the balance of power is inevitably held by the small parties who can barter their support for concessions from the main groups within the coalition. Can lack clear objectives, or be difficult to agree common objectives.

Coalition government is less transparent. Because a party has no real chance of forming a government alone, the manifestos they present to the public become irrelevant and often wildly unrealistic. Real decisions about political programmes are made after the election, in a process of secretive back-room negotiation from which the public is excluded.

Coalitions provide bad government because they are unable to take a long-term view. Sometimes an ideological compass is necessary for governments to navigate in difficult political and economic waters, and coalitions lack such a unifying philosophy. In addition planning for the long-term often requires decisions to be made that are unpopular in the short-term. Coalitions often fail such tests because temporary unpopularity may encourage one of the parties involved to defect, in search of a populist advantage. May be dominated by one powerful organization. Power is not always distributed equally among members; larger or richer organizations can have more say in decisions making.

The task of the leader is to get his people from where they are to where they have not been and enhancing competence in climbing the ladder of success!!

By: Saidina Alieu Jarjou

Alias Dr.ABS Taal JR.