By Kemo Kanyi
\ Ousainu Darboe, leader and flagbearer of the United Democratic Party, has said his party is open to coalition-building based on principles rather than political convenience ahead of the December presidential election.
Speaking in a recent interview with DW Africa, Darboe stressed that political alliances should not compromise core values and long-held principles.
He dismissed the possibility of an alliance with a faction of the Alliance for Patriotic Reorientation and Construction associated with former president Yahya Jammeh, citing fundamental differences.
“Political convenience should not make you sacrifice principles. A party that we fought against for 22 years is incompatible with us. Partnering with them would be a betrayal of those who have sacrificed, endured torture and lived in exile,” Darboe said.
On the prospect of cooperation with the United Movement for Change, led by Talib Bensouda, he noted that political splits among former allies are often accompanied by mistrust, but maintained that the UDP remains open to working with other political actors.
Darboe reiterated that any viable coalition must be founded on trust, shared values and commitment to national development, arguing that alliances formed out of convenience have proven ineffective.
He added that the UDP would only join a coalition capable of addressing the country’s challenges and delivering meaningful solutions, stressing that the party is ready to partner with like-minded groups committed to principled governance.
