“Political Hypocrisy Goes Both Ways”: Saihou Saidily UDP UK Chairman Hits Back at Unite Over Nyawuru Row

Has weighed in on the ongoing debate between Nyawuru Komma and supporters of the Unite Party, arguing that political rhetoric and criticism should not be viewed as a one-sided affair.

Saidily’s comments follow Nyawuru’s recent appearance on Eye Africa Sunu Réew, where he questioned the use of funds at the Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC). The remarks have sparked criticism from some Unite supporters, with some questioning Nyawuru’s previous relationship with Unite leader Talib Ahmed Bensouda, including his decision to name his son after him.

Saidily said he understands why such an argument could be raised, noting that naming a child after someone can demonstrate a significant level of trust and respect. However, he argued that this should not prevent anyone from seeking clarification over allegations involving public funds.

He said those making allegations should be prepared to provide substantive evidence to support their claims, while those being accused should also be allowed to respond.

“What is logical in a democratic space is to challenge the accuser to be upfront with substantive evidence to back up his/her claim,” Saidily said.

He called for political disagreements to be handled with greater maturity and cautioned against turning political debates into personal attacks.

Saidily Says Political Rhetoric Goes Both Ways

Saidily rejected the argument that only UDP supporters have changed their positions following political disagreements or fallouts.

He noted that UDP leaders and supporters had previously praised Talib Bensouda’s work as KMC mayor, including references to his administration as a possible model for a future UDP government.

At the same time, Saidily said Bensouda and his supporters had also previously spoken positively about UDP leader Ousainu Darboe.

He recalled that Bensouda had described Darboe as a mentor and credited figures within the UDP with helping him develop politically.

Saidily argued that political relationships often change after disagreements, adding that similar developments have occurred in other political settings.

He cited the relationship between President Adama Barrow and Darboe as an example, noting that Barrow once praised Darboe but later became one of his political opponents.

He also pointed to political developments in Senegal involving President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko as another example of how political relationships can evolve.

Tax Issue Draws Questions

Saidily also revisited the tax-related controversy involving Darboe and several other Gambian lawyers.

He argued that whenever the matter is raised, the full context should be presented, including the involvement of the other lawyers, rather than focusing exclusively on Darboe.

He questioned why the issue was not prominently raised during the 2021 presidential campaign by individuals who were supporting Darboe at the time.

“If not, why not?” Saidily asked.

He said providing the complete historical context is important, particularly for younger Gambians who may not be familiar with the circumstances surrounding the tax commission established under Justice Mama Singhateh.

Calls for Scrutiny of All Political Leaders

Saidily acknowledged that the UDP’s main political focus remains on President Barrow and his government. However, he argued that opposition politicians seeking the presidency should also be subjected to scrutiny.

He said such scrutiny is necessary to help voters make informed decisions and avoid repeating what he described as the experience of 2016, when many Gambians supported political leaders primarily because they wanted to see former President Yahya Jammeh leave office.

“There is nothing wrong in us scrutinising our leaders seeking for the highest office just to avoid making same blunder we did in 2016 when most of us supported Barrow without truly knowing him just because we wanted to see Jammeh go,” he said.

Saidily stressed that political scrutiny should be based on facts, ideas and accountability, rather than insults or personal attacks.

He said Gambians should be able to challenge political leaders and one another while maintaining respect and allowing room for fact-checking and learning.

Saidily Endorses Darboe

While calling for broader scrutiny and issue-based political discussions, Saidily made his own political preference clear.

He said he believes UDP leader Ousainu Darboe is the individual best suited to occupy the presidency, arguing that Darboe demonstrated his commitment to the country during what he described as one of The Gambia’s most difficult periods.

Saidily concluded by urging political actors and supporters to raise the standard of public debate and focus on issues that can contribute to a more informed electorate.

“I enjoy issue based conversations and can spend good chunk of my time on them just to elevate our discourse,” he said.