By Binta Jaiteh
A former supporter of the ruling National People’s Party (NPP), Allagie Kijera, has announced his defection to the opposition United Democratic Party (UDP), citing concerns over corruption and governance challenges in the country.
Kijera, a Gambian citizen who has been residing in the Netherlands for more than 20 years, accused the NPP-led government of failing to meet the expectations of Gambians and betraying the trust placed in it by voters.
Speaking on his decision, Kijera said his move followed a careful assessment of the country’s political landscape and the various political parties seeking leadership.
“I left the NPP because I am dissatisfied with the way the government is governing the country. The economy is struggling, the healthcare system faces serious challenges, the cost of basic commodities continues to rise, and citizens are concerned about increasing crime rate and frequent electricity outages,” he said.
Kijera argued that Gambians had voted for change after 22 years of rule under former President Yahya Jammeh and expected reforms that would strengthen democratic governance and accountability.
According to him, the alliance between the NPP and the Alliance for Patriotic Reorientation and Construction (APRC) was a major political miscalculation.
“The victims of APRC Government are still seeking justice and reparations. This was not what many Gambians expected. The citizens have been betrayed,” he added.
Kijera says he believes the UDP offers the best alternative for addressing the country’s challenges, including corruption, energy shortages, healthcare difficulties and economic hardship.
He maintained that his decision was not influenced by age, gender or ethnicity, but by what he described as the UDP’s consistency in advocating for reforms, fighting corruption and promoting the adoption of a new constitution that guarantees equal opportunities for all Gambians.
He further stated that the party’s political agenda provided a framework for creating an environment in which citizens can prosper without discrimination or abuse.
Kijera also announced his endorsement of UDP leader Ousainou Darboe and pledged his commitment to the party’s constitution, values and programs.
He vowed to work alongside the UDP in its efforts to address the country’s challenges and improve the welfare of Gambian citizens.