“In fact, the emblem of the UDP reflects peace and unity with shaking hands,” he added, saying that tribalism has no space in politics or in national development. He pointed out that people in this country are inter-related due to inter-marriages.
Darboe said he has heard numerous allegations against him and his party that the UDP is a Mandinka party, further clarifying that the party (UDP) belongs to no single tribe, but to all citizens of the country.
Speaking at a general meeting held Sunday night 8 December 2024 at the community of Farafenni, Illiassa Constituency, Darboe noted that there is no party in this country run by a single tribe. He said that the affairs of his party are run with a combination of citizens from various ethnicities.
The UDP leader who is currently on a nationwide tour with rallies in all regions is discussing with his party supporters significant national issues.
The tour, which started on Saturday 7 Dec. 2024, is designed to engage and reassure Gambians about the glorious destiny of The Gambia and the firm commitment of the UDP to understand the challenges of the people and to “collectively salvage the country from the hardship and cost of living crisis.”
The Farafenni meeting also witnessed presentations of a good number of supporters from various groups who have recently defected from the National People’s Party to the United Democratic Party.
Speaking at the meeting, Lawyer Darboe further revealed that despite the fact that the nation is no more under a British colony, The Gambia is yet to gain its total independence.
He said for the country to attain its total independence, there should be a collective effort by the UDP sympathisers to vote NPP out of the State House in the coming 2026 presidential elections.
He further urged UDP supporters who are 18 years and above, particularly the youth to secure their voters’ cards to serve as their weapons to vote out the current government.
He assured that when he wins the 2026 presidency, his government will restore the Gambia’s economy, respond to the needs of the citizenry with equal treatment.
In the same vein, Lawyer Darboe also expressed dismay over the recent operation clean the streets which he said was a cruel action towards the Farafenni market women and other locations who are struggling to earn their living through sales to feed their children.
