In a powerful show of unity, sponsored councilors from the Upper River Region (URR) who contested in the last council elections have publicly declared their unwavering support for His Excellency Lawyer Ousainou Darboe and the United Democratic Party (UDP). The announcement, made on October 9, 2025, aligns the URR councilors with their counterparts in the West Coast Region’s Brikama Area Council, reinforcing their collective commitment to the UDP’s leadership and values.
The declaration, signed by seven sponsored councilors, underscores their loyalty to Darboe, the UDP’s leader, and the party’s founding principles. The councilors—Sainey Dampha (Dampha Kunda Ward), Alagie Touray (Sarengai Ward), Arafang Touray (Sandu Ward), Sainey Kanuteh (Basse Ward), Momodou Jallow (Sabi Ward), Alagie Sanyang (Sami Ward), and Lamin Drammeh (Kulari Ward)—expressed gratitude for the “tireless efforts, sacrifices, and visionary leadership” of the UDP’s founding fathers.
In their statement, the councilors emphasized their resolve to uphold the party’s image, integrity, and values. “We collectively and unequivocally express our loyalty and commitment to Lawyer Ousainou N.M. Darboe and to the ideals and principles of the United Democratic Party,” the declaration reads. They also acknowledged the democratic right of others to pursue different paths but vowed to remain steadfast in defending the UDP’s legacy.
This public endorsement comes at a time of heightened political activity in The Gambia, as parties strengthen their bases ahead of the December 2026 elections. The URR councilors’ alignment with their West Coast Region colleagues signals a broader effort within the UDP to consolidate support and project unity under Darboe’s leadership. Political analysts view the move as a strategic step to reaffirm the party’s influence in key regions, such as the URR, a critical area in Gambian politics.
The declaration has sparked reactions across the political spectrum, with UDP supporters praising the councilors’ loyalty and critics noting the challenges of maintaining party cohesion in a dynamic political landscape.
As the UDP continues to navigate internal and external pressures, the URR councilors’ statement serves as a reminder of the party’s enduring commitment to its founding vision and its leader’s legacy.
The signed declaration marks a significant moment for the UDP, reinforcing its position as a formidable force in Gambian politics.
