By: Haddy Touray
The leader of the United Democratic Party (UDP), Ousainou Darboe, has dismissed claims that a UDP-led government would engage in acts of revenge if elected, saying the party would instead focus on justice within the rule of law.
Speaking in an interview with Mengbe Kering, Darboe said ensuring accountability should not be equated with violating citizens’ rights.
He said a future UDP administration would prioritise justice while respecting due process and legal safeguards.
Darboe argued that failure to address corruption would undermine past efforts to confront alleged abuses committed under former President Yahya Jammeh’s government.
He also referred to concerns over governance and corruption under the current administration, saying these issues must be addressed to strengthen accountability.
The UDP leader said the party’s anti-corruption stance dates back to the Jammeh era, during which it consistently raised concerns about alleged wrongdoing.
Darboe further said the UDP remains engaged in coalition talks ahead of the 2026 presidential election, insisting that the party should lead any potential alliance.
He argued that political parties should be capable of contesting elections independently, even as coalitions remain part of the political landscape.
Darboe also referenced the 2016 coalition that brought President Adama Barrow to power, noting that Barrow had resigned from the UDP before becoming the coalition’s flag-bearer.
He said the UDP’s performance in recent National Assembly elections demonstrated its electoral strength and expressed confidence ahead of the next presidential polls.