Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The National Executive of the United Democratic Party (UDP) has strongly condemned recent comments made by President Adama Barrow regarding the party’s leader and Secretary General, ANM Ousainou Darboe.

On July 27, 2024, during the inauguration of a political party bureau in Brikama, President Barrow made a statement in Mandinka that has sparked outrage among many Gambians. He declared, “I will take an oath today that I will remain as president until Ousainou Darboe dies. Until such time that he is dead, I will remain president. That is the contract I have signed. When his death is announced, and I attend his funeral, then I will be fulfilled as president, and I can step aside.”

The UDP has labeled these remarks as “disgusting, irresponsible, and dangerous,” categorizing them as hate speech and a threat to Darboe’s life and well-being. The party emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting that President Barrow’s previous statements have branded the UDP as a threat to national security, further escalating concerns about the potential for these threats to be taken seriously by the public.

UDP says Ousainou Darboe, a respected family man and leader, has responded with calm and faith, urging his supporters to remain peaceful and trust in God’s will. He expressed his desire to continue serving the Gambian people and to leave his fate in God’s hands.

The UDP’s statement underscores the importance of responsible leadership, particularly from the President, who is expected to unify the nation rather than sow division and resentment. They expressed disappointment that President Barrow, who recently led a national dialogue, would resort to such divisive rhetoric.

The party has called on the National Human Rights Commission to address President Barrow’s conduct and has urged him to retract his statement and apologize to the Gambian people. The UDP warned that such incendiary remarks could incite political violence, especially as the country approaches the 2026 elections, and stressed the need for a focus on policies that positively impact citizens’ lives.

The UDP’s condemnation serves as a reminder of the vital role of political leaders in maintaining peace and unity in The Gambia, urging all citizens and leaders to strive for the highest standards of decency and responsibility.