By Binta Jaiteh
The United Democratic Party (UDP) has condemned an audio recording allegedly featuring one of its members making threatening remarks against staff of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) and members of The Gambia Armed Forces (GAF).
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the party described the alleged utterances as unacceptable and fundamentally inconsistent with its values.
“The UDP does not condone threats, intimidation, or any form of language that seeks to undermine the safety, dignity, or independence of our national institutions,” the statement noted.
The party said that the IEC has a constitutional responsibility to administer elections, while the armed forces are mandated to safeguard the country’s sovereignty and security.
It said both institutions must be allowed to discharge their respective responsibilities in accordance with the Constitution and the laws of The Gambia, free from threats, intimidation or undue pressure.
According to the statement, the UDP’s pursuit of political change is rooted in democratic principles, respect for the rule of law and the will of the Gambian people as expressed through credible, free and fair elections.
The party stressed that disagreements with institutions or public officials must be addressed through lawful, peaceful and democratic means rather than threats or inflammatory rhetoric.
As the country approaches the December 2026 presidential election, the UDP called on its members, supporters and sympathizers to exercise restraint, uphold discipline and conduct themselves responsibly in their political engagements, both online and offline.
It also urged Gambians across the political divide to reject violence, intimidation and hate-filled rhetoric, emphasizing that the national interest transcended partisan differences.
The party said maintaining a peaceful electoral environment was a collective responsibility requiring the commitment of political parties, electoral authorities, security institutions, the media and every citizen.
The UDP reaffirmed its commitment to a peaceful, transparent, credible and democratic electoral process, saying it would continue to advocate for electoral integrity and accountability while respecting the law and institutions entrusted with protecting the country’s democracy.
“Our quest for political change must never come at the expense of national peace, unity, and stability,” the statement assured.
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