Picture source: Google images
Patriotism has been defined and interpreted differently but one thing is certain, the true meaning remains the same. The meaning that really attracts and resonates with me is the one given by Teddy Roosevelt, who defined patriotism as “standing by the country. It does not mean to stand by the President or any other public office.” A lot of philosophers found this to be interesting as Roosevelt was dubbed a militarist and a warmonger. Of all the people that would advocate for true patriotism, critics considered him to be the last one to defend this principle. For him to call people to demonstrate loyalty to the nation and her people instead of the President was surprising.
Tyrants alter the true meaning of patriotism and mislead citizens to adopt nationalism disguised as patriotism. Nationalists succeed in isolating their citizens from the outside world by persuading them to believe that foreign relations are risky for the nation. They implement vices and coerce citizens to adopt them as acceptable norms and values. Where there is resistance, they use torture and barbaric intimidating practices to force citizens to comply. Opponents of the government and citizens that exercise dissent are labelled as enemies of the state convincing the citizens to antagonize such groups. The effects of deception coupled with naivety make the horrific actions of a dictator not only acceptable, but honorable to the citizens that are brainwashed. The principles of patriotism advocate that support or opposition to the President should be based on the implementation of right and wrong policies. Our experience under Yaya Jammeh’s regime exposed the continued acceptance of bad policies. Embracing true patriotism will inspire us to intensify our efforts to fight for justice and fairness. We have seen how pursuit of national and shared interests continues to motivate people throughout the world to fight for freedom. They challenge oppressive regimes and remain defiant until victory is attained.
Tyranny dealt us and is still dealing us a harsh blow. It has injected division and skepticism that was not prevalent in Gambia society. Creating division and inciting enemity among the people has been a strategy that shifted the attention of the people from the poor governance and brutality of this regime. This is confirmed in the recent Human Rights Report that exposed the gruesome torture techniques used by Yaya Jammeh’s security elements. We can no longer condone a divided society of the privileged and underprivileged, but re-establish a diverse society that cares for all the members. We must wake up to the realities of our time, confront and end the inhumane treatment of citizens. We must cordially engage each other and free ourselves from the grip of a dictator who initially disguised himself as a savior. What we witnessed is a power hungry individual who resorts to gruesome human rights violations to stay in power. Patriotism reminds citizens of their responsibilities and obligations to uproot dictatorship through the demand and exercise of their constitutional rights. It also injects compassion and sensitivity in citizens resulting in a general sense of responsive to issues affecting their communities. A moral society does not condone injustice, but confronts situations including the people that render psychological assistance to injustice.
With the embrace of patriotism, the culture of a few fights while the rest remain on the sidelines or remain non-committal is replaced with one that embrace a unity of efforts and equal commitment. There are numerous reasons and evidence why we must collaborate to end tyranny in the Gambia. As we continue to bicker and indulge in personal attacks and criticisms, innocent citizens suffer illegal arrests, detentions, torture and disappearances in the hands of the dictator. Patriotism gives power to the people instead of one individual, and makes them realize that power is bestowed on them by the Almighty God. The immorality and brutality of this regime has been clearly manifested. Individuals that assist in the distortion of the laws and policies of the country to please dictatorship and satisfy their selfish endeavors are guilty of extending tyranny and the suffering of the people of the Gambia.
Patriotism injects humility in people to accept that the country is bigger than one individual and as result, willing accept and fulfill roles without being leaders or center of attention. Let us be inspired by great leaders and renowned personalities who give up the attainment of personal endeavors in exchange for the fulfillment of collective goals. They focus on fighting injustice and inequality. Let us brace ourselves and remember that the fight to end injustice and human suffering is a challenging and daunting task, but the outcome is benevolent. It is this anticipated outcome that inspires freedom fighters to remain relentless. Even though a strong movement needs an outstanding and inspirational leader, humility breeds the adoption of a culture of transition. Leaders put systems in place for the organization to successfully carry on in their absence. The iconic freedom fighters before us received strong opposition, and were called all sorts of untruthful and hurtful names. Despite the criticisms, they never wavered on their pursuit and fight for the good of country. Enriching lives and making a positive influence motivated their commitment. Believing in truth enabled legendary freedom fighters to overcome and defeat the odds, leaving lasting legacies.
Ethicists emphasize the correlation between critical thinking, moral integrity and responsible citizenship. We are optimistic that the application of these virtues will guide our nation out of the current darkness. It will guide us in recognizing the truth that working together and fighting for country is the ideal choice. The need to develop a conscientious populace with a strong faith and moral courage will resist coercion and manipulation of dictatorship. We must emulate the citizens of Burkina Faso who put their lives on the line to regain the democracy that is being hijacked. They are using the most important and safest weapon, the people to win back their democracy. With determination and confidence, the people of the Gambia can also institute the government of their choice. Ending tyranny and reinstating rule of law in which democracy and civil society thrive remains the main objective, and by God, victory will always be with the people.
By Ebrima Manneh
The points expressed here have no governmental or institutional affiliation. They are strictly my opinions and exercise of my civil liberties.