Africa-Press – Gambia. United Democratic Party (UDP)’s Administrative Secretary, Hon. Alhagie S. Darboe has dismissed claims that the party’s administrative wing is backing lawyer Ousainou Darboe’s bid for the 2026 presidential flag bearer position.
Speaking in an exclusive interview on Saturday, Hon. Darboe who is also National Assembly Member for Brikama North described the allegations as “false and unfounded,” stressing that the flag bearer application process was strictly an executive decision of the party.
“The decision regarding the flag bearer application was guided by prevailing political circumstances and reflects the UDP’s broader strategic interest ahead of the 2026 presidential election,” Darboe explained. “The UDP constitution, principles, and internal democratic procedures remain intact,” he added.
The UDP opened applications for its presidential flag bearer on 18 August 2025, with the process expected to close on 2 September 2025. Darbo emphasized that the process was open to all “eligible and qualified party members” who wish to contest, insisting that no measures have been taken by the administrative wing to restrict or prevent any member from applying.
He maintained that the decision “was never about shielding or favouring any individual but about safeguarding the unity, stability, and preparedness of the party at this critical moment.”
Darboe also addressed concerns raised by one aspiring candidate over the application period but rejected suggestions that some applicants had stepped aside to pave the way for Ousainou Darboe.
On the issue of dual citizenship, he clarified that any aspiring candidate with dual nationality must provide evidence of having initiated the renunciation process during their interview with the party. “If you declared that you have dual citizenship and have renounced it, we would like to see evidence of that negotiation during the course of the interview,” he said.
He adds that the UDP is considering flexibility to allow aspiring flag bearers with dual citizenship adequate time to complete the renunciation process before the 2026 polls. “We still have more than a year before the election, so there is sufficient time,” he affirmed.
Hon. Darboe urged UDP militants, members, and Gambians to dismiss what he described as false insinuations linking the administrative wing to Ousainou Darboe’s candidacy. Instead, he called for unity and focus. “Our collective goal should be building a stronger UDP that can deliver meaningful change for The Gambia,” he concluded.
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