By: Alieu Ceesay
The United Democratic Party (UDP) marked its thirtieth anniversary with a large gathering at Brikama SSP football field on Sunday, 23rd August 2026, turning the occasion into a powerful show of strength and a clear call for political change ahead of the December 5th elections.
The event served dual purposes. It reinforced the party’s base in the West Coast Region while giving supporters and militants space to reflect on three decades of struggle, achievement, and the challenges The Gambia still faces. Yellow dominated the field as UDP faithful filled the stands and pitch area, joined by supporters from allied parties including the People’s Progressive Party. The visible presence of these partners underscored the growing opposition alliance determined to challenge the incumbent administration.
Party leader Ousainou Darboe took the stage to a roaring reception and delivered a direct message: unity is the only path to victory. Addressing the crowd, he urged Gambians to set aside divisions that have long hindered progress. “Let’s forget about tribalism, let’s forget about our differences, let’s unite to salvage this country,” Darboe declared. He framed the December election as a decisive moment for the nation and called on his supporters to work together to unseat President Adama Barrow.
Darboe outlined priorities his government would pursue if elected. He pledged particular attention to the concerns of persons with disabilities, stating that high-level cabinet appointments could include individuals living with disabilities. The commitment drew strong applause from sections of the crowd. He also turned to the agricultural community, assuring farmers that their needs would receive careful and sustained support under a UDP-led administration. Agriculture remains central to the livelihoods of many in the West Coast Region and beyond, and Darboe’s words were received as a signal that rural voices would not be sidelined.
The UDP leader repeatedly stressed the importance of expanding the party’s ranks. He encouraged supporters to continue recruiting new members in the remaining months before the polls, arguing that broader participation would improve the party’s chances of success. “No one is going to write our history for us, we are going to do it by ourselves,” Darboe said, striking a tone of self-reliance and determination that resonated with the audience.
On the electoral process itself, Darboe was clear. “We want a free and fair election. That is what UDP wants, and that is what all these political parties want,” he stated, gesturing toward the alliance partners present.
Other speakers reinforced the central message. Banjul Mayor Rohey Malick Low addressed the gathering and urged voters to back the UDP. Haruna Jarta, a member of the UDP Alliance, added his voice to the call for change. Ousman Madike Faal, Secretary-General of the People’s Progressive Party, also spoke, encouraging the public to support the UDP ticket.
The anniversary celebration carried symbolic weight. Founded thirty years earlier, the UDP has long positioned itself as a major force in Gambian politics. Sunday’s event in Brikama allowed the party to celebrate its longevity while pivoting firmly toward the immediate contest. Organizers used the platform to remind supporters of past struggles and to map out the work still required in the final stretch before voting day.
The atmosphere remained energetic throughout the evening. Chants, yellow flags, and the steady flow of speakers kept momentum high. For many in attendance, the gathering was both a birthday party for the party and a campaign rally rolled into one. The West Coast Region has often proved important in national elections, and the strong turnout suggested the UDP is working to consolidate its position there.
The celebration in Brikama marked more than three decades of political activity. It marked the opening of the final phase of a campaign that opposition leaders insist will determine the country’s direction for years to come.
