By Yunus S Saliu
A total of 147 supporters of the United Democratic Party (UDP) on Saturday night joined the ruling National People’s Party (NPP) in Kiang West, citing development opportunities and confidence in President Adama Barrow’s leadership.
The defection took place during celebrations marking the inauguration of the D1.2 billion Kiang West Roads Project, attended by residents, supporters and government officials.
The group, largely composed of youths, was led by Lamin Drammeh, who announced their decision to join the NPP during the event.
They said their move was motivated by ongoing development projects in the area and across the country, which they described as evidence of government commitment to improving living conditions.
During the ceremony, the new members wore NPP T-shirts and caps bearing images of President Barrow and other party symbols, while publicly renouncing their previous political affiliation.
They later posed for photographs with President Barrow and cabinet ministers who attended the inauguration of the 91-kilometre road project.
The development is the latest reported political realignment in Kiang West amid shifting party affiliations in some parts of the country.
