The United Democratic Party (UDP) will soon begin the process of selecting its next flag bearer, Senior Administrative Secretary Alagie S. Darboe has confirmed.
He said the exercise will be conducted in line with the party’s constitution, principles and a spirit of mutual respect.
Darboe made the announcement on Saturday during the UDP’s convention in Seattle, where the party reportedly raised more than seven million dalasis in just a few hours.
“I wish to bring to your attention that the process of selecting the much talked about our party’s flag bearer will soon commence, and we must allow it to be guided by our constitution, principles, and respect for each other,” Darboe told delegates. “Our diversity of opinion must be our strength, not our weakness. Rather, they reflect a dynamic political culture within UDP, one that tolerates debate, embraces generational dialogue, and values democratic decision-making. Let me be clear: unity is not the absence of disagreement; unity is the triumph of collective interest over personal ambition,” he said.
The Brikama North lawmaker urged members to set aside differences and work together in the national interest.
“We must all remember that what unites us is far greater than what divides us. We share a common mission to rescue The Gambia from corruption, injustice, and economic despair. As a legislator, I cannot overstate the importance of Parliament in sustaining our fragile democracy,” he said.
Darboe described the National Assembly as “the beating heart of the republic” but noted that it remains undervalued and under threat, often facing criticism – even from the Gambian public.
“Given all sorts of names and, at times, unpleasant attacks by our own people, as the minority caucus (UDP and other opposition members) in the National Assembly – even though we are a minority – we have been steadfast in carrying out our constitutional responsibilities. We represent the voice of the Gambian people, providing effective oversight of the executive and introducing private members’ bills that reflect the aspirations of our citizens,” he said.
He stressed that a strong Parliament is essential to upholding transparency, justice, and people-centred development, warning that the 2026 elections will also be a referendum on the dignity of national institutions.
“The Gambia needs a strong Parliament, one that reflects the will of the people, resists executive overreach, and restores public trust.
That is why the 2026 election is also about protecting the dignity of our institutions including the legislature. Our work also extends to grassroots politics in our respective constituencies. We continue to engage our communities directly, empowering the youth, supporting women, and addressing the pressing issues that affect the daily lives of Gambians,” Darboe said.
Darboe also praised the Gambian diaspora, describing them as “partners in national transformation” who have been instrumental in amplifying the party’s voice abroad, supporting it during challenges, and contributing to renewal efforts.
“This is where real political change begins at the grassroots level, with strong community mobilization and service. To our diaspora members, you are not just members; you are partners in the national transformation. You have been our voice abroad, our strength in times of trial, and our partners in times of renewal.”
