The Gambia’s biggest opposition political formation, the United Democratic Party (UDP), received another significant blow as Abdou Sowe, the National Assembly Member for Kombo East Constituency, announced his resignation from the party, effective immediately.

In a formal letter submitted to the party, Sowe expressed his decision to discontinue his association with the UDP, citing a desire for freedom to explore alternative avenues for making a meaningful contribution to public life.

Already in January, social medial handles supporting the ruling NPP hinted to Hon. Sowe’s resignation from UDP and cross-carpeting to NPP. Although the then UDP national assembly member for Kombo East paid a private visit to President Adama Barrow at State House, he however denied the news and pledge his total allegiance and loyalty to Ousainou Darboe’s party.

Sowe, who was sponsored and supported by UDP in the last National Assembly Election, thanked the party for its past support. The UDP, in turn, informed its members, supporters, and sympathizers in The Gambia and the Diaspora of Sowe’s resignation, noting that his decision has been accepted by the party.

Shortly after Sowe’s announcement, the deputy spokesperson of the National People’s Party (NPP), Hon. Seedy Njie, welcomed Sowe’s decision, praising it as a bold move made in the best interest of the country. Njie expressed NPP’s readiness to welcome Sowe, highlighting the party’s values of national cohesion, tolerance, peace, prosperity, and progress.

Sowe’s decision to join NPP comes as a significant development in The Gambia’s political landscape, signaling potential shifts in political alliances and strategies ahead of future elections.