Africa-Press – Gambia. The United Democratic Party (UDP) should lead any coalition ahead of the next elections, the party’s youth leader has said, citing recent polls and public support.
UDP Youth Leader Hagi Suwaneh said the party’s leader, Ousainu Darboe, remains the most credible choice to champion policies focused on sustainability, anti-corruption and economic recovery.
Suwaneh referenced CepRass polls, which he said show declining confidence in President Adama Barrow. The data, he said, indicates that 34% of respondents preferred Barrow against an alliance candidate, while 49% backed the coalition’s choice.
Among opposition parties, the UDP led with 35%, while other parties recorded between 2% and 8% support.
“Gambians clearly want a UDP-led government capable of implementing meaningful reforms,” Suwaneh said, adding that UDP’s strong presence in the National Assembly, local councils and community leadership positions reflects public backing.
He also cited audit reports showing billions of dalasis unaccounted for in 2024, and more than 110 billion dalasis lost between 2021 and 2023 due to alleged mismanagement and corruption.
“Tackling corruption and ensuring accountability must be central to any coalition-building process,” he added.
Suwaneh said coalition principles should include clear policy priorities, transparent resource allocation, inclusive decision-making and shared goals.
He praised Darboe’s anti-corruption stance and disciplined leadership, noting that the UDP leader secured 238,000 votes in the 2021 presidential election and has continued mobilising support.
“Expecting UDP to abandon a leader with proven integrity and popular support would undermine the people’s interests,” he said.
He added that Darboe’s leadership would ensure a coalition that reflects Gambians’ priorities, including improving livelihoods, fighting corruption and building a sustainable future.
For More News And Analysis About Gambia Follow Africa-Press
