By Binta Jaiteh & Isatou Sarr
Chairman of the United Democratic Party (UDP) Diaspora Chapter, Mboge Saidykhan, has described party leader Ousainou Darboe as “the best placed candidate” to address The Gambia’s governance and economic challenges.
Saidykhan made the remarks on Wednesday at a UDP rally held in Fajikunda Bajongkoto.
He said Gambians in the diaspora had mobilised support for the party through fundraising efforts aimed at helping to finance preparations for the forthcoming election campaign and strengthening links between the UDP and its supporters abroad.
According to Saidykhan, the diaspora recently raised 11 million dalasis to support the party’s campaign activities.
“The diaspora regards Mr. Darboe as the candidate who can address the country’s challenges. The fundraising effort is intended to support the campaign and help fulfil the aspirations of Gambians, particularly women who bear a significant burden of economic hardship,” he remarked.
Addressing supporters, Saidykhan urged voters to back the UDP in the forthcoming presidential election.
“We in the diaspora want Mr. Darboe to end your years of struggle. We have played our part by raising funds. It is now your turn. We are your brothers, sons and nephews, and we are here to help solve the country’s problems. Go out and vote for him,” he told the gathering.
Deputy Mayor of the Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC), Binta Janneh Jallow, told supporters that the party remained resilient despite the challenges and criticisms it faced.
She said Darboe would continue his campaign to address public concerns, adding that such objectives could only be achieved if citizens voted for the UDP in the coming election.
“The UDP is concerned with the welfare of citizens, including health services, youth unemployment and the rising cost of basic commodities. It is left to us as voters to decide the future of the country. Let us vote for change to improve living conditions for future generations,” Jallow remarked.
She also urged party supporters to intensify house-to-house engagement to strengthen the party’s campaign efforts.
Badibou Central National Assembly Member Sulayman Saho called on voters to support the UDP if they wanted political change.
“I call on President Adama Barrow to step down. Gambians have suffered enough. It is time to leave the State House and allow Lawyer Darboe to lead the country,” Saho said.
He accused the government of mismanaging public resources and argued that voters should use the ballot box to address economic hardship.
Saho also urged politicians and supporters to reject tribal politics, saying The Gambia belonged to all its citizens.
The remarks come as political parties intensify campaigns ahead of The Gambia’s presidential election scheduled for 5 December.