This debate marks a historic milestone—the first time in Gambian history that a party leader and member openly disagreed in a public forum on national television. Such a moment is not just unprecedented; it is a powerful testament to the maturity of Gambian politics and the growing embrace of democratic ideals.

While some may disagree with Alhagie Mamadi Kurang’s approach, his willingness to critique the party leadership publicly—and Halifa Sallah’s readiness to engage and clarify—reflects a culture of transparency and accountability that should be celebrated. 

This spirited exchange dispels the myth of PDOIS as a cult party, showcasing that freedom of expression thrives within its ranks. It is a sign that no one is afraid to speak their mind, and that intellectual discourse is alive and well.

Moments like these pave the way for a more open and inclusive political landscape, where ideas can be debated, challenged, and refined in the public sphere. 

It is a sign of progress, maturity, and the strengthening of democratic principles in Gambian politics. This is not just a debate—it is a beacon of hope for the future of political discourse in the country.

Debates are the lifeblood of democracy. They foster intellectual discourse, encourage the exchange of ideas, and challenge entrenched perspectives, ultimately paving the way for progress and inclusivity. 

In political parties, debates are equally vital, serving as a mechanism for accountability, transparency, and the cultivation of internal democracy. Without open dialogue and the freedom to express dissenting views, political parties risk devolving into cults of personality, stifling ambition and innovation, and undermining their democratic foundations.

Yesterday, Gambians witnessed a rare and significant moment on national television. On EYE AFRICA TV’s show ‘Sunu Reew,’ founding member and leader of the People’s Democratic Organisation for Independence and Socialism (PDOIS), Halifa Sallah, engaged in a spirited debate with new member Alhagie Mamadi Kurang.

The discussion centered on the internal workings of PDOIS, with Kurang raising concerns about the party’s leadership style and alleged lack of internal democracy, while Halifa provided clarifications and defended the party’s structure and principles.

While some may argue that party issues should not be aired on a public platform, much less on national television, the debate between Halifa and Kurang represents a healthy development for PDOIS and Gambian politics. 

It dispels the notion that PDOIS operates as a cult party, demonstrating that no one is afraid to speak their mind and that freedom of expression is alive within the party. This openness is a testament to the party’s commitment to democratic ideals and its willingness to embrace intellectual discourse.

The debate also marks the beginning of a broader societal opening through democratic principles, particularly freedom of expression and the encouragement of internal democracy within political parties.

It challenges the outdated model of parties operating as cults of personality, where dissent is suppressed, and members are expected to conform without question. Such practices not only stifle creativity and ambition but also erode the very essence of democracy.

Internal democracy is the cornerstone of any thriving political party. It ensures that members have a voice, that leadership is accountable, and that decisions are made collectively rather than unilaterally.

Without internal democracy, political parties risk alienating their members and losing their relevance in the eyes of the electorate. After all, what is the point of joining a party if your freedom of expression is curtailed? What is the point if you cannot challenge ideas, manifest your thoughts, or contribute to the party’s vision?

Debates and brainstorming sessions are essential features of organizational and political development. They provide a platform for members to engage, critique, and collaborate, fostering a culture of innovation and inclusivity.

The spirited exchange between Halifa and Kurang exemplifies this dynamic, offering a glimpse into the potential for political parties to evolve and adapt through open dialogue.

The debate on EYE AFRICA TV should be welcomed by every Gambian and politician as a step forward in fostering intellectual discourse and the exchange of ideas. Open forums, especially on national television, provide an opportunity to discuss the workings of political parties and the way forward for the country. 

By disagreeing to agree on fundamental issues, such debates can strengthen the democratic fabric of the nation and inspire greater accountability within political parties.

However, it is worth noting that internal matters of a party are often better settled within the party’s secretariat. Public discussions of sensitive issues can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or misinterpretations. That said, if Halifa Sallah and Alhagie Mamadi Kurang agreed to engage in this public debate, it should be seen as a positive development—a sign of maturity and openness within PDOIS.

Alhagie Mamadi Kurang’s critique of PDOIS’s leadership style, accusing the party of lacking internal democracy, is emblematic of the challenges faced by many political parties. His assertion that the party is run by one-man decisions, with others allegedly excluded from decision-making processes, raises important questions about the nature of leadership and governance within political organisations.

Kurang’s remarks, while critical, also acknowledged PDOIS’s contributions to strengthening democracy in The Gambia. His willingness to voice dissent publicly, coupled with Halifa’s clarifications on the internal workings of the party, reflects a culture of intellectual engagement that should be celebrated. It is through such debates that political parties can address their shortcomings, refine their structures, and reaffirm their commitment to democratic principles.

The spirited exchange between Halifa Sallah and Alhagie Mamadi Kurang serves as a reminder of the importance of debate and internal democracy in political parties. It challenges the notion that dissent is destructive, instead highlighting its role in fostering growth and accountability. 

Gambians should embrace this culture of intellectual discourse, encouraging political parties to prioritise transparency, inclusivity, and collective decision-making.

As the nation continues to navigate its democratic journey, debates like these can inspire greater engagement, critical thinking, and collaboration. They can help dismantle the cults of personality that stifle progress and pave the way for a more open, inclusive, and dynamic political landscape.

By Alagi Yorro Jallow