OBSERVATION

This question demands that the candidates discuss the character portrayal of Gbanya and highlight the remarkable traits he displayed. Many candidates were able to correctly identify the character of Gbanya.

A good response is expected to contain:

• A discussion on the theme of internal struggle for power and leadership, and an external aggression by the colonial government.
• A clear identification of the character of Gbanya.
• Ghanya’s achievements: His governance enables Mende land to boast of “… the richest wine and the biggest cattle”. Yoko inherits his stable leadership for she confesses that Gbanya is “ … the man who made Senehun into a great chiefdom …”
• Gbanya’s pragmatism: He confesses to Yoko. “… If Senehun is to survive, a man must lead ... not a woman.” This is because patriarchy is practised in Mende kingdom.
• His show of care and love: He loves and cares for Yoko because of her vision and contribution to the affairs of the kingdom.
• Gbanya’s mistakes: his misjudgement in sending his warriors to fight on John Caulker’s side as against the Governor’s brother.

The candidates’ performance was very good.