#Headlines

Darboe refutes claims of signing deportation accord with German gov’t

Aug 28, 2023, 11:40 AM | Article By: Ismaila Sonko

Lawyer Ousainu Darboe, the party leader and secretary general of the United Democratic Party (UDP), has denied allegations that he had signed deportation agreement between the Gambia and the German government in 2018 during his tenure as Foreign Affairs Minister. 

Darboe, who described the allegation as “false” was speaking on Wednesday in a press conference marking the 27th Anniversary of the UDP held at its Manjai Bureau.

The UDP leader rubbished the allegation, while stressing his innocence by indicating that it’s false.

The UDP leader has expressed dissatisfaction over the alleged corruption and embezzlement in President Adama Barrow administration, while referencing unsuccessful projects of governments that millions were spent upon.

He stated that the government needs to prioritize investment in health, education and agriculture for the well-being of Gambians.

The country's top opposition leader further indicated that the malpractices at the local government authorities did not incriminate the mayors or chairmen, saying that the commission is incriminating people who were appointed by the government.

Other pertinent state issues he highlighted included the freedom of the press. The UDP leader in solidarity with the media, assured absolute media freedom in The Gambia if elected president in the upcoming 2026 presidential election.

The party leader also talked about the need to hold the government to account as his party advocates for the adoption of the rejected draft constitution by the parliamentarians in 2020.

In commemoration of the 27th anniversary, the UDP leadership addressed the press and party supporters with the memory lane of the formation of the party and its founding fathers and the state of the nation.