Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The leader and secretary general of the United Democratic Party (UDP), Lawyer Ousainou ANM Darboe, has declared that the 2026 presidential election is not about his personal ambition but about rescuing Gambians from corruption and mismanagement.
Darboe, a veteran lawyer and politician, was elected as the UDP’s flagbearer on 10 September 2025 following a selection process that pitted him against Amadou Sanneh, former Finance Minister and the party’s national treasurer, and Lawyer Borry S. Touray, one of the UDP’s legal advisers.
Speaking after his confirmation, Darboe said his goal is to unite the UDP and offer Gambians a credible alternative that prioritizes national interest over political privilege.
“The election is not about me. It is about rescuing the Gambians. It is about putting the needs of our people above the privileges of politicians. It is about ending corruption and waste, creating jobs for the youth, fixing the healthcare system and education, and giving our people the dignity they deserve,” he told journalists.
Darboe emphasized that achieving these goals requires unity, describing the UDP as a diverse family that must come together to serve the Gambian people.
He urged citizens to rise above personal differences and embrace friendship and collegiality, warning that internal disputes must not fracture the party.
“I appeal to all our members and supporters to look forward, reconcile differences where they exist, and focus on bringing about the change our country desperately needs. What unites us is far bigger than any minor differences we may have as individuals,” he said.
While acknowledging tensions during the flagbearer selection, Darboe commended the UDP Central Committee for what he described as a skillful, fair, and transparent process. He said dialogue should remain the party’s guiding principle, stressing that it is not a weakness but “the strength of the humble and the wise.”
Darboe, who has led the UDP for decades, reflected on his long political journey and reaffirmed his commitment to service.
“My objective as flagbearer is to pave the way for the journey we embarked upon during very difficult times in our history. As I approach the sunset of my life, what drives me is not personal ambition, but the urgent call for service,” he said.
He concluded with a call for collective action: “Together, with the Gambian force, we will rescue our nation and build a future of dignity, justice, and opportunity.”
