By Fatou Dahaba
In a bold declaration that has sent ripples through Gambia’s political landscape, Modou Turo Darboe, the influential Chief Executive Officer of the Vision Development Foundation (VDF), revealed that he has financially supported every major political party in the country’s past elections.
Speaking at a vibrant community event in Jasong, where he was honored as an “honorary father” by residents of Jasong, Fula Bantang, Sare Batch, and surrounding communities, Darboe announced his intention to dive headfirst into party politics ahead of the 2026 presidential election. However, he ruled out running for president himself.
“There’s no genuine political party in The Gambia that I have not sponsored,” Darboe asserted, addressing a diverse crowd of youths, elders, and women’s groups in the Lower River Region (LRR). “I’m not talking about backdoor political parties, but the real ones. I’ve provided financial assistance, even printed T-shirts for major parties during their campaigns.” His revelation underscores his long-standing influence behind the scenes of Gambian politics, raising questions about the financial dynamics of the country’s electoral process.
While Darboe remained tight-lipped about which political party he might align with, he expressed a willingness to collaborate with any party that prioritizes the interests of the Gambian people. “I might join hands with GDC, NPP, UDP, Essa Faal, or even NCP,” he teased, promising to return to Jasong on June 21, 2026, to unveil his political plans. “I expect you to be with me on this journey, and I believe you will support what I decide,” he told the enthusiastic crowd.
Darboe’s speech was laced with sharp criticism of the status quo in Gambian politics. He decried the “politics of deception,” where politicians make empty promises during campaigns only to disappear until the next election. “You cannot continue clapping and dancing while you see no development,” he said, urging citizens to hold leaders accountable. He called for an end to the entrenched party system where leaders cling to power for decades, refusing to pass the baton to younger, capable candidates.
Using a vivid football analogy, Darboe illustrated his point: “Imagine a match between BB Darboe and Essa Faal. BB Darboe takes five penalty shots and misses every time, while Essa Faal scores on his first try. If you keep missing, you should step aside and let someone else take the shot. That’s democracy. But insisting on more chances after repeated failures is dishonest and unfair to your team.”
Darboe also criticized tribalism, accusing politicians of using it to “divide and rule.” He urged Gambian youths to unite and reject leaders who exploit ethnic divisions for political gain. “All ethnic groups are equal in this country,” he emphasized, calling for a collective focus on national development over tribal allegiances.
The VDF CEO didn’t shy away from addressing his detractors, particularly young critics. He challenged them to ask their party leaders about his contributions to their campaigns. “Let any politician deny collecting from me, and I’m ready to face them,” he declared confidently, signaling his readiness to confront any opposition head-on.
While Darboe made it clear he will not vie for the presidency in 2026, he promised to play a significant role in shaping the country’s political future. Through his organization, VDF, he vowed to address the welfare of communities like those in LRR, ensuring that their challenges become “a thing of the past” once his political journey begins in earnest. “By 2026, I will fully involve myself in politics and work to improve your lives,” he assured the audience.
The event in Jasong was a testament to Darboe’s grassroots appeal, drawing a cross-section of LRR residents who see him as a champion of their interests. His blend of philanthropy and political ambition has positioned him as a formidable figure in Gambia’s evolving political landscape. As the 2026 elections loom, all eyes will be on Darboe to see how he translates his financial influence and community goodwill into a tangible political force.
With his promise to return next year and reveal his chosen path, Darboe has set the stage for what could be a transformative moment in Gambian politics. Whether he joins an established party or charts a new course, one thing is clear: Modou Turo Darboe is ready to shake up the system and demand politics that puts Gambians first.
