In a stirring address at the United Democratic Party (UDP) Diaspora Convention in Seattle, Hon. Alhagie S. Darbo, Senior Administrative Secretary and Minority Leader in The Gambia’s National Assembly, called for unity and robust diaspora engagement as the party prepares for the critical 2026 presidential election. The historic gathering, the first since 2017 to include UDP National Assembly members, underscored the party’s commitment to leveraging its global support base to shape The Gambia’s democratic future.
Darbo, speaking to a distinguished audience including former Vice President and UDP Party Leader A.N.M. Ousainu Darboe, UDP Diaspora Chairman Mboge Saidykhan, and Mayor of Kanifing Municipal Council Talib Ahmed Bensouda, and Chairman of Mansa Konko Area Council, Landing Sanneh emphasized the high stakes of the upcoming election. “The 2026 presidential election is not just another political contest; it is a must-win—a battle for the soul of the Gambian state, for generational justice, and for institutional reform,” he declared.
Highlighting the UDP’s strategic preparations, Darbo outlined the party’s approved 2025 calendar of activities, which includes vigorous campaigning. However, he noted significant financial challenges and appealed to the diaspora for support. “The secretariat notes challenges in financing these activities, and I call on the diaspora to come to our rescue as usual. We must act now. We can’t wait until 2026,” he urged.
Darbo addressed the impending selection of the UDP’s flagbearer, stressing that the process must adhere to the party’s constitution and principles. “Our diversity of opinion must be our strength, not our weakness,” he said, advocating for a dynamic political culture that embraces debate and democratic decision-making. He defined unity as “the triumph of collective interest over personal ambition,” urging members to prioritize the shared mission of rescuing The Gambia from corruption, injustice, and economic despair.
As Minority Leader, Darbo underscored the pivotal role of the National Assembly in sustaining The Gambia’s fragile democracy. Despite being a minority, the UDP caucus has been steadfast in its oversight of the executive and in introducing private members’ bills that reflect citizens’ aspirations. “The National Assembly is the beating heart of our republic,” he said, warning that it remains undervalued and under threat. He called for a strengthened Parliament to resist executive overreach and restore public trust, framing the 2026 election as a critical moment for protecting institutional dignity.
Darbo also highlighted the UDP’s grassroots efforts, with members engaging communities to empower youth, support women, and address pressing local issues. He praised the diaspora’s indispensable contributions, noting their remittances, activism, and advocacy as vital to the party’s strength and the vision of a new Gambia. “You are not just members; you are partners in national transformation,” he told the diaspora, encouraging them to deepen their involvement through party-building, resource mobilization, voter education, and policy advocacy.
In a nod to the diaspora’s political aspirations, Darbo pledged to continue pushing for their voting rights, stating, “The diaspora vote matters, and we will continue pushing to ensure your political inclusion becomes a legal reality.”
Closing his speech, Darbo rallied UDP members and supporters to remain united and focused, emphasizing the challenges ahead. “The road to 2026 will not be easy. We will be tested. But if we remain principled, united, and forward-thinking, we shall prevail,” he said. He called for a collective commitment to deliver The Gambia from inertia into a future of hope, justice, and prosperity, addressing the youth, elders, and diaspora alike.
The convention, hosted by UDP Seattle Chairman Said Ceesay, was attended by a high-powered delegation from Banjul, signaling the party’s recognition of the diaspora’s pivotal role. As the UDP gears up for 2026, Darbo’s message resonated as a clarion call for unity, action, and unwavering commitment to The Gambia’s democratic future.
