In a stirring call to arms from across the Atlantic, United Democratic Party (UDP) Flagbearer ANM Ousainou Darboe rallied Gambians in Europe to unite and spearhead a “rescue mission” against President Adama Barrow’s “corrupt and incompetent” regime ahead of the 2026 presidential election.
Speaking at a packed Fundraising Gala Dinner on Saturday, October 18, in Birmingham, United Kingdom, Darboe hailed the event—organized by the UDP UK Chapter and the broader European diaspora—as a triumphant showcase of patriotism and resolve. The gathering drew hundreds of party loyalists, supporters, and friends of The Gambia, raising vital funds while reigniting the flames of opposition fervor.
“UDP is not just a political organization; it’s an enduring idea rooted in justice, freedom, and the sovereignty of the Gambian people,” Darboe declared in his keynote address, beaming greetings from The Gambia’s National Executive. He honored the party’s founding fathers and mothers, crediting their sacrifices during the anti-dictatorship struggle for fueling today’s resilience.
Darboe’s speech turned sharply critical of Barrow’s administration, lamenting how post-Yahya Jammeh hopes for good governance have been “betrayed by corruption, incompetence, and waste.” He positioned the UDP as the vanguard of accountability, vowing to restore competence and national unity.
Addressing recent internal party tensions over flagbearer selection, Darboe insisted the process was “transparent and fully democratic,” urging members to bury differences. “UDP belongs to the people, not any single individual,” he emphasized. “Our singular goal: defeat Barrow’s failed administration in 2026.”
The veteran lawyer and opposition stalwart outlined a bold strategy: forging opposition alliances, courting undecided voters with practical solutions, and leveraging traditional and digital media responsibly—while partnering with independent outlets as democracy’s watchdogs.
Special praise went to the diaspora, whom Darboe called the “lifeblood of the UDP.” He implored them to ramp up mobilization and redirect remittances toward political change. “If you entrust me with the presidency, I pledge a clean, transparent government that tolerates no corruption, waste, or abuse,” he promised. “Together, we’ll build the Gambia we all desire.”
Senior UDP figures echoed the unity theme. Party Founder Bemba Tambedou and National Assembly Minority Chief Whip Hon. Sulayman Saho reaffirmed their dedication to national renewal, drawing thunderous applause.
The UDP Communications and Media Team lauded the UK Chapter, volunteers, and all supporters for their tireless efforts. “The rescue mission has begun,” they declared. “Together, we will win.”
As Gambia’s political landscape heats up, Darboe’s transatlantic clarion call signals a unified UDP poised for battle, with the diaspora as its secret weapon. With 2026 looming, the stakes couldn’t be higher for a nation yearning for redemption.
