Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – Gambian veteran journalist and former Minister of Information, Demba Ali Jawo, has called for reforms in The Gambia’s annual Koriteh courtesy call to the head of state, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and fairness in the national gathering.

In a post on his social media feeds, Jawo acknowledged the positive aspects of the event, which serves as a platform for Muslim leaders to engage with the government on issues of national relevance. However, he argued that as society evolves, certain aspects of the tradition need to be reassessed to reflect present realities.

One of his primary concerns is the name “Banjul Muslim Elders,” which he finds outdated given the event’s national scope. “It is incorrect to continue to refer to it as Banjul Muslim Elders when it has now taken a national characteristic,” Jawo asserted, calling for a more representative nomenclature that includes all Gambians.

Jawo also raised concerns about the exclusion of women from the forum, despite their demographic majority and crucial role in society. “No society can fully realize its potential if such an important segment is marginalized,” he stated, adding that there is no religious justification for barring women from discussions on national affairs.

Another major issue highlighted in his letter is the exclusion of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at from the platform, despite its significant contributions to education and healthcare in The Gambia. Jawo questioned why other religious groups, such as the Supreme Islamic Council and the Lebanese community, are granted a voice while the Ahmadiyya Jama’at is sidelined.

“If indeed the occasion was meant to bring together different sects of Gambian Muslims to discuss national issues, then there is no justification to sideline any group,” he stressed.

Jawo urged President Adama Barrow, as host of the event, to ensure fairness and justice in the composition of speakers, cautioning against allowing a select few to impose their biases on a nationally significant gathering.

Additionally, while acknowledging the government’s infrastructure developments, Jawo took issue with President Barrow’s tendency to claim sole credit for the country’s progress. He emphasized that national achievements result from collective efforts rather than the work of one individual.

“The government deserves commendation for its impressive infrastructural developments, but he should be humble enough to accept the fact that the achievements are a result of a collective effort rather than his own personal effort,” he wrote.

Jawo’s remarks add to the ongoing discourse about inclusivity and representation in national affairs, challenging the government to ensure that traditions evolve in a way that reflects the diversity of The Gambia’s society.