By Kalifa Darboe
There are plenty of reasons why I will never forget about Solo Sandeng. He is a rare patriotic Gambian who gets along with everyone. An ambitious and goal-oriented man who defends vulnerable people from bullies. A man who believes in equality, justice and freedom.
His death strikes me like a thunderbolt. I cannot still believe this Brave Jewel is gone. But I am not surprised he died defending what he has throughout loved doing: defending the rights of everyone. That has been his trademark ever since I knew him in Dippa Kunda.
I knew Solo over 26 years (1989-2016). He has become a blood brother who frequently talks to me. I still have vivid memories of our last conversation on April 7th, 2016. During our 45-minute phone conversation, Solo remained confident about change in The Gambia. His brotherly advice vibrates in my ears. Little did I know that would be our last conversation. I wished I had known. Allah, the Knower of everything, knows my brother will embark on a journey of no return.
Solo was killed in a callous, cruel and hearthearted manner. I am struggling to understand why a man who demonstrated peacefully would be tortured to death on April 15th. The ruthless killers succeeded in taking Solo’s life but not his legacy. He will never die in our memories.
The Holy Quran is very clear about those who are slain in the cause of Allah which includes defending your rights in Suratul Al Imran verse 69 thus:
And never think of those who have been killed in the cause of Allah as dead. Rather, they are alive with their Lord, receiving provision.
My brother Solo Sandeng, rest in Eternal Peace. I pray that Allah bless your soul. You are gone but your legacy will forever live with us.
Ends
What a powerful statement. Can’t hold my tears. Solo, May the Almighty Allah put u and the fallen heroes in the highest place of Janna. Ameen.
Rest in peace sol fula silinka kiling. U are the hero of all heroes. May Allah bless u in janatul firdasu.