Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The United Democratic Party (UDP) has been hit by another wave of resignations, with more grassroots leaders in the Kanifing Municipality stepping down from the party and its executive structures.
On October 2, Hon. Habib M. L. Ceesay, Councillor for Ebo Town/New Jeshwang Ward at the Kanifing Municipal Council, tendered his resignation as Second Vice President of the UDP National Youth Wing and as a member of the National Executive Committee.
In his resignation letter to UDP National President Hon. Alhagie S. Darboe, Ceesay described his departure as a difficult but deliberate decision.
He said the UDP had been a family legacy that shaped his political journey but explained that after “deep reflection,” he found it necessary to pursue new directions that align with his democratic convictions.
Ceesay, who stressed the importance of term limits and consistency in leadership, remarked:
“True leadership requires practicing what is preached. I leave with no bitterness, only respect, fond memories, and best wishes for the UDP’s continued success. May The Gambia’s progress always remain above all else.”
His resignation follows that of Muhammed M. Drammeh, Councillor for Dippa Kunda Ward, who formally quit the party effective October 1.
In his letter dated September 29, Drammeh cited “ideological differences” as the reason behind his decision, acknowledging that leaving the UDP was not easy given his role in the 2023 local government polls.
The back-to-back resignations of Drammeh and Ceesay underscore growing unease within the UDP’s grassroots leadership, particularly among elected councillors in the Kanifing Municipality.
Both men were considered influential youth figures in the party, with Ceesay holding one of the top positions in the National Youth Wing.
While neither councillor has announced a move to another political party, their exits add to mounting questions about cohesion within the UDP ahead of future national contests.