By Alieu Ceesay
United Democratic Party (UDP) leader Ousainou Darboe has pledged to serve only one term if elected President in the December 5, 2026 presidential election, promising to use the period to introduce a new constitution, transform the security sector, and lay the foundation for economic development.
Speaking on Monday after presenting his nomination papers to the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), Darboe described the ongoing nomination period as a historic moment for The Gambia. He said it could be the last time he personally submits his candidature to the electoral body.
“It is a very momentous occasion and, for some of us, very historic because it will be the last time I will present my nomination papers to this august institution,” Darboe said.
The nomination window, running from November 3/4 to November 14, has seen aspiring candidates formally present themselves to seek the mandate of Gambians. Darboe, accompanied by supporters, completed the required formalities, including proof of citizenship, tax clearance, asset declaration, and the mandated deposit and nominee signatures. IEC officials said that they would communicate the fate of nomination bids by mid-November, clearing the way for the official campaign period ahead of the December poll.
The UDP leader urged Gambians to approach the electoral process with restraint and maturity. He warned against any actions that could undermine the country’s peace and stability.
“I want to appeal to every Gambian that we should be reasonable, we should be rational, that we shouldn’t do anything that will disturb the tranquillity and stability of this country,” he said.
Addressing questions about his one-term pledge, Darboe said a single presidential term would allow his proposed administration to focus squarely on delivering major institutional and economic reforms without the distraction of seeking re-election. He promised that the period would oversee the introduction of a new constitution, comprehensive security sector reform, and changes to the civil and public service.
“My single term will carry the greatest legacy for this country,” he said.
Darboe further pledged to establish a merit-based public service system. He insisted that public servants should not feel cheated or unfairly treated under his administration, signaling a shift toward competence and fairness in government appointments and operations.
On the economy, he said his government would lay the foundation for the country’s transformation, with the ambition of moving The Gambia from its status as a least developed country toward a high-income economy. He cited the crude oil saga as one issue the party had brought to public attention, arguing that fighting corruption would be essential to achieving economic recovery.
Darboe maintained that tackling corruption would remain a cardinal priority of his proposed administration, framing it as indispensable to restoring public trust and unlocking the resources needed for sustainable development.
