United Democratic Party (UDP) leader Lawyer Ousainou A.N.M. Darboe has urged Gambians to prioritize national interest over ethnic considerations in the upcoming December 2026 presidential election. He made the call while speaking to party supporters and residents in Lower River Region (LRR), as part of the UDP’s ongoing outreach activities. Darboe emphasized that the election should be about leadership, governance, and accountability rather than tribal affiliations.
Darboe told the gathering that the election belongs to all ethnic groups in the country, not just one. He stated that he is contesting the election not to enrich himself but to solve the long-term problems of the nation. The UDP leader urged voters to assess candidates based on their leadership qualities, track records, and commitment to transparency in managing public resources.
According to Darboe, the future of The Gambia depends on electing leaders who can unite the nation and address pressing challenges. He made the remarks as political parties intensify their outreach efforts across the country in preparation for the December polls. The UDP is one of several parties vying for support ahead of the election.
Darboe’s call for Gambians to prioritize national interest comes as the country prepares for a crucial election. The election is expected to be a significant event in the nation's history, with various parties competing for the top spot. The UDP leader's remarks are seen as an effort to rally support for his party.
The UDP is one of several parties that have been actively engaging with voters across the country. The party's outreach activities aim to promote its manifesto and drum up support for Darboe's presidential bid. Other parties have also been intensifying their efforts, with some forming alliances ahead of the election.
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has been registering political parties ahead of the December polls. Three more parties were registered on September 18, 2026, bringing the total number of registered parties to several. The IEC has been working to ensure that all parties are compliant with electoral regulations.
The 2026 presidential election is expected to be a significant event in The Gambia's history. Various stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations, and international observers, are closely watching the developments ahead of the election. The outcome is expected to have a lasting impact on the nation's future.
Key points
- UDP leader Lawyer Ousainou Darboe calls on Gambians to prioritize national interest over ethnic considerations in the upcoming December 2026 presidential election.
- Darboe emphasizes that the election should be about leadership, governance, and accountability rather than tribal affiliations.
- The UDP leader urges voters to assess candidates based on their leadership qualities, track records, and commitment to transparency in managing public resources.
