By Michael Scales, UK

I am very well aware that some Gambian's would take exception to this Englishman making his observations on the distressing situation in The Gambia.

Even those who would have some sympathy with my association with The Freedom Newspaper, can still take offence that I should contribute my full quota to the development of a free and truly accountable and transparent.... democratic Gambia.

 The contribution from Mr.Demba Jawo presently viewed on the Gambian Echo..for me says it all. In fact Mr Jawo leaves very little left to be said....for he leaves nothing to the imagination.

 In almost 3 years of association with "Freedom" I can fully take some pride that this newspaper has grown from its humble beginnings, to be a real Journalistic force to be reckoned with. In March 2007, I entered this arena as someone who had good connections with The Gambian and British Government since April 2000.

 Looking at the early exchanges, it is clear that I viewed the APRC government in a favorable light and perhaps was not so complimentary to my own British experience or the Gambian online media.

 It is true, that I saw, in the members of the Gambian government, who treated me well, a sense that President Jammeh commanded much respect and I sensed that these very same people truly believed that Jammeh was the focal point of Gambian aspirations towards prosperity and self reliance. This with which to galvanize the people to the highest ambitions of a prospective nation.

 Being in Banjul so often...it was not easy to lift my vision above the daily contacts to see the much bigger picture of what was really going on.

 I would like to pay tribute to The Gambian online media..each and every one of you, for being so dedicated and instructive to the impartial observer. It is clear that many Gambian's now see the online media as not only the truly accountable section of Gambian life. But I am aware that many Gambian's who were formerly the very same supporters of Jammeh, now turn {especially to The Freedom Newspaper} for protection. For those who have  in the past.....disappeared.... are signposts, to the present and ongoing fears of those who are being pursued and may suffer the same fate.

 The daily responsibility of accounting for the movements of Gambian's between Mile 2, The respective police stations or NIA Headquarters..and when appropriate..their release, is a formidable insurance which assists the families and friends of the wrongly accused, the harassed or the scapegoats.

What persists in The Gambia is the destruction of the guaranteed rights of the citizen as established within the Gambian Constitution and the International covenants of which The Gambia is a fully paid up member.

 Also in line for just commendation, is The Media Foundation for West Africa, who's diligence has been a beacon of hope for Africa's future. Allied to the ever vigilant eyes of Amnesty International and the many companions for the protection of the right of free passage to Journalists.

 The most remarkable difference that these last 3 years have produced, by the lead taken by The Freedom Newspaper....is the ever increasing number of concerned citizens who now come forward to speak openly without recourse to a sudename. It is inspiring to view the productive commentaries from People like Essa Bokar Sey, Pa Nderry Mbai, Mathew K.Jallow, Dida Halake, Kemo Cham and of course my old friend Demba Jawo.

 I remain very proud of Fatou Jaw Manneh..for her immeasurable bravery and female intuitive intelligence. More power to the rights of women..especially African's.

I would appeal to every citizen of Africa, to make known that they do not and should not fear the free passage of Law available from The International Criminal Court. For no citizen of any standing should ever fear the imposition of Law or its honourable right to debate the legitimacy of any State, Government, or Citizen. All have the right to be challenged and all have the right of robust defence.

 Finally, I would myself, most regrettably, support The Freedom Newspaper's call for The Gambia to be suspended from membership of The Commonwealth of Nations. Until such time as it produces either in person, or the remains of Chief Manneh and Kanyiba Kanyi and all political detainees..of any colour creed or affiliation..... and comes clean over so many other matters for compassion as are contained within the lists held by Matthew K.Jallow.

 My highest commendation goes to Pa Nderry Mbai for his tireless and remarkable personal achievement..for not only establishing The Freedom Newspaper....from the most meagre of resources...but to its maintenance and the honour of the protection of his family through full time employment, study and its reward and the forward momentum of the inalienable right of all Gambian citizens....to freedom.

I remain.... Michael U.K.