By Alieu Ceesay
In a bold display of momentum, the newly formed Unite Movement for Change (UMC) on Saturday hosted its inaugural political congress and rally in the Greater Banjul metropolitan area, marking a significant milestone for the party just months ahead of the December presidential election.
Thousands of enthusiastic supporters converged at the Buffer Zone grounds, clad in the party’s signature colors and t-shirts, waving flags and chanting slogans of hope and victory. The atmosphere was electric as the movement, which recently broke away from the opposition United Democratic Party (UDP), officially launched its campaign machinery with a clear message of change.
Yaya Sanyang, the party’s sole National Assembly member and newly elected Deputy Leader, urged grassroots politicians and supporters to adopt a dialogue-driven approach in their campaign efforts.
“Every day we want you guys to do politics on behalf of Unite,” Sanyang told the crowd. He emphasized that respectful engagement and persuasion could sway supporters from other parties, helping UMC build a broader coalition. Sanyang also seized the moment to call on all Gambians to participate in the ongoing voter registration exercise, describing it as a civic duty essential for the upcoming polls.
National President Ebrima Dibba delivered a fiery address, positioning UMC as a solution-oriented party ready to tackle the country’s most pressing challenges. He singled out irregular migration — often referred to as the “back way” — as a national crisis that has claimed countless young Gambian lives.
“Gambians, vote for Talib and we will end irregular migration,” Dibba declared, drawing loud applause. He promised that under UMC leadership, the party would address the root causes pushing youths to risk dangerous journeys to Europe, including unemployment, lack of opportunities, and poor governance.
Party Leader Talib Bensouda, who has faced criticism for leaving the UDP to form UMC, responded directly to his detractors.
Speaking with confidence, Bensouda said: “I trust myself, and I trust in Allah.” His remarks were met with cheers from supporters who view him as a fresh face capable of injecting new energy into Gambian politics.
The rally combined serious political messaging with vibrant entertainment, featuring musical performances that kept the crowd energized throughout the day. Supporters described the event as both historic and uplifting, signaling that UMC intends to be a formidable force in the December election.
Political observers note that UMC’s rapid mobilization, strong grassroots presence, and focus on youth-related issues, such as migration, could reshape the opposition landscape.
With voter registration still ongoing, party officials say they are working tirelessly to ensure every eligible Gambian is registered and ready to support their vision of a transformed nation.
As the December polls draw nearer, Saturday’s successful rally has firmly placed UMC on the political map, demonstrating organizational strength and youthful appeal in a crowded field of candidates.
