Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The United Democratic Party (UDP) has distanced itself from an audio recording circulating on social media in which an individual linked to the party is heard making threatening remarks against staff of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) and members of The Gambia Armed Forces.
In a statement dated October 12, 2026, the UDP said the remarks, if verified, were “unacceptable” and fundamentally inconsistent with the party’s values and its commitment to peaceful democratic engagement.
The party said it does not condone threats, intimidation, or language that could undermine the safety, dignity, or independence of national institutions.
UDP reaffirms respect for institutions
The UDP said the IEC has a constitutional responsibility to administer elections, while the Armed Forces are mandated to safeguard the sovereignty and security of The Gambia.
Both institutions, it said, must be allowed to carry out their respective responsibilities in accordance with the Constitution and the law, without threats, intimidation, or undue pressure.
The party said its pursuit of political change is rooted in democratic principles, the rule of law, and the will of Gambians expressed through credible, free, and fair elections.
It added that disagreements with public institutions or officials should be addressed through “lawful, peaceful and democratic means,” rather than through threats or inflammatory rhetoric.
Call for discipline ahead of December election
With the presidential election scheduled for December 5, the UDP National Executive called on its members, supporters, and sympathizers to exercise restraint and discipline in their political engagements, both online and offline.
The party also urged Gambians across the political divide to reject violence, intimidation, and hate-filled rhetoric, saying the national interest should take precedence over partisan differences.
It said maintaining a peaceful electoral environment was a collective responsibility involving political parties, electoral authorities, security institutions, the media, and citizens.
The UDP reaffirmed its commitment to what it described as a peaceful, transparent, credible, and democratic electoral process, while maintaining that it would continue to advocate for electoral integrity and accountability within the law.
“Our quest for political change must never come at the expense of national peace, unity, and stability,” the party said.
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