By Binta Jaiteh
The National President of the Unite Movement for Change (UMC), Ebrima Dibba, has called on party supporters to remain focused and ignore distractions from political opponents as the country prepares for the 2026 elections.
Speaking during the party’s Youth Congress on Saturday, Dibba reflected on the challenges the movement faced before and after its formation, saying perseverance and commitment had enabled it to build a strong support base.
“Back in October, we felt like everything was over. Everything was tough for us with distractions all around us. That is normal. We are standing firm to face the elections. It is not magic but commitment,” he said.
“Anyone who had told me that UMC would come this far, I would not have believed it. Let us remain focused on our goals. We will face distractions along the way, but through commitment and dedication we will succeed. This movement belongs to all of us. It was established on principles aimed at salvaging the country. Gambians are suffering,” he added.
He urged supporters and Gambians to remain united and committed to bringing about political change.
Dibba argues that The Gambia continues to face major challenges in the health and education sectors, which he attributes to poor governance.
Also addressing the gathering, the councillor for Ebo Town Ward, Habib Ceesay, said many people believed his political career had ended after he resigned from the United Democratic Party (UDP).
Ceesay said self-confidence remained essential despite criticisms and discouragement, adding that political opponents would always seek to undermine others.
“It is important to believe in yourself. Everything is destined. We remained steadfast to achieve our objectives and today we have reached this stage. Everyone can see the direction the country is taking,” he said.
The councillor expressed confidence that the UMC was capable of governing the country and said the 2026 presidential election would be crucial for the future of young people.
“Let us vote wisely. Stay focused and ignore the noise. There will be attempts to distract you but remain committed to the goal. Young people should prepare themselves and face the realities of life in order to succeed,” Ceesay reiterated.