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UMC claims Yaya Menteng Sanyang’s arrest was political

Apr 21, 2026, 11:32 AM | Article By: Ismaila Sonko

The United Movement for Change (UMC) says the arrest of National Assembly Member Yaya Menteng Sanyang was tied to voter registration and was politically motivated.

UMC spokesperson Kemo Bojang told a press conference that both the opposition United Democratic Party (UDP) and the ruling National People’s Party (NPP) are using security forces against UMC members during a critical political period.

Bojang called the arrest “disappointing” and said it is part of broader political pressure while electoral activities are underway.

UMC positions itself as a new opposition force ahead of the December 2026 elections. Kemo Bojang says NPP is “terrified” of UMC and heavily targeting the movement.

Mr. Bojang explained that Hon. Yaya Menteng Sanyang was summoned to Fajikunda Police Station after United Democratic Party (UDP), members in his constituency filed a complaint alleging he (Hon. Sanyang) was involved in "registering illegal voters."

Mr. Bojang further stated that on 19 April, after Hon. Sanyang’s cooperation and left the station, he was recalled for more questioning. UMC spokesperson says no case file, evidence, or charges were presented. They called the process “irregular” and an “abuse of process.”

According to him, UMC’s rebuttal of the allegations and claims is that they are “false, baseless, driven by hearsay.”

"Hon. Sanyang has no access to birth records, IEC systems, or registration authority. He’s not Ministry of Health, Records Office, or IEC staff. “Private citizen can’t manipulate registration," he said.

Mr. Bojang emphasised that Hon. Sanyang only encouraged eligible Gambians to register and helped transport constituents to centers, regardless of party. 

Political targeting claim: UMC mouthpiece said UDP fabricated allegations because they felt threatened by UMC’s growth.  

He emphasised that UMC won’t be intimidated or stopped. “We will contest these elections by God's grace and we will win.” he urged authorities to act “professionally, transparently and without bias.”