Lawyer Ousainu Darboe, secretary general and party leader of the United Democratic Party (UDP), has been selected as the Party’s standard bearer for The Gambia’s 2026 presidential election, solidifying his position as the party’s presidential candidate.
Darboe has thus reiterated his call for unity among the party members.
The announcement of his candidacy followed a dramatic party selection process, marked by the last-minute withdrawal of contender Amadou Sanneh, who threw his support behind his longtime ally Darboe.
Darboe, a prominent figure in Gambian politics, faced competition from leading party lawyer Borry S. Touray in the selection process. Sanneh’s endorsement is believed to have tipped the scales, consolidating support for Darboe within the party.
The decision positions Darboe, a seasoned political veteran, as the UDP’s frontrunner to challenge for the presidency in 2026.
Political analysts view this as a pivotal moment for the UDP, a key opposition force in The Gambia.
Darboe’s candidacy is expected to galvanize supporters as the party gears up for a high-stakes election. The focus now shifts to Darboe’s campaign strategy and the UDP’s plans to rally voters ahead of the 2026 polls.
