The The United Democratic Party (UDP), hailed as a bastion of political opposition, finds itself at a crossroad. After years of political maneuvering, the party's leadership structure is facing an internal crisis that threatens to undermine its influence and disrupt the broader political landscape of The Gambia.
Historical Context
The UDP has been a central player in Gambian politics since its formation in 1996. It was established during the formative and repressive rule of Yahya Jammeh, a dictator who stifled political dissent and maintained an iron grip on power for over two decades. The UDP emerged as the main opposition party, championing democratic reforms, human rights, and the rule of law. Under the leadership of Lawyer Ousainou Darboe, the party became synonymous with the struggle for freedom and justice in The Gambia. Hon. Darboe and others were to pay the ultimate price of standing up to a dictator. Some of those who openly resisted the dictatorial regime were jailed and others died.
In 2016, the UDP played a crucial role in the coalition that successfully ousted Jammeh from power. Adama Barrow, a little known former assistant treasurer of the party, was selected as the coalition's presidential candidate and went on to defeat Jammeh to become the country's next president. However, Barrow's subsequent estrangement from the UDP and his decision to form his own political party, the National People's Party (NPP), led to tensions and a realignment of political allegiances within the country.
The Current Leadership Dilemma
The UDP is now grappling with a leadership conundrum that could have far-reaching implications for its future. Ousainou Darboe, who has been the party's figurehead for decades, remains a respected leader. However, questions about his ability to continue leading the party into the future, especially as flagbearer for the 2026 presidential polls have surfaced yet again. Darboe's age, health and loss of several presidential elections have been cited as concerns, raising the issue of succession within the party — a topic that has not been openly addressed.
This leadership uncertainty is compounded by internal divisions within the party. Several members have expressed dissatisfaction with the current direction of the UDP, leading to factionalism. Some members advocate for a younger, more dynamic leadership that can appeal to a broad-based electorate and rejuvenate the party's image, while others remain loyal to Darboe, valuing his experience and historical significance.
Shortly after the UDP convention in Barcelona, Spain earlier this month, Yunus Hydara, a member of the UDP posted a recorded video on Facebook, calling for Darboe to step aside to allow a "younger" candidate to lead the party as flagbearer for the 2026 polls. Mr Hydara is known to publicly call for the party to install KMC Mayor Talib Bensuda as candidate and flagbearer to challenge President Barrow in 2026. Mr Hydara was later to be expelled from the UDP Diaspora WhatsApp group as a result of his Facebook post calling for Darboe to step down as party leader and flagbearer.
The party's failure to clearly articulate a succession plan has led to speculation and uncertainty among some of its supporters. This lack of clarity could weaken the UDP's position as it prepares for the 2026 presidential elections, particularly in a political environment that is becoming increasingly competitive.
The Broader Political Implications
The leadership crisis within the UDP does not exist in a vacuum. It has significant implications for the broader political landscape of The Gambia. The NPP, led by incumbent President Barrow, has been consolidating power and attracting former UDP and APRC members, thereby eroding the UDP's base. Momodou Sabally, is one of those members who have left the UDP and thrown their weight behind Barrow and his NPP. Without a clear and unified leadership, the UDP risks losing its status as the primary opposition party due to different factions within the party.
Moreover, the UDP's internal struggles could lead to voter disillusionment. The party has traditionally enjoyed strong support, particularly among the Mandinka ethnic group, but the current uncertainty could alienate voters who are seeking stability and clear direction. One political commentator asked: "How can a country be entrusted to a party (UDP) that appears to be in complete disarray?" . This could open the door for other political parties, such as the Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC) or the People's Democratic Organisation for Independence and Socialism (PDOIS), or even to new aspirants to gain ground.
Speaking from an informed perspective, USA-based author Saikou Camara, a strong UDP supporter who spent 14 months in the Gambia leading to the 2021 presidential polls, campaigning for the party wrote:
“Forgive my bluntness, but I'm frustrated. We seem unwilling to learn and deaf to the cries of Gambians who seek our attention. It's vital for any political party to regularly reassess whether their self-perception aligns with how the voters actually see them.”
Writing further, Mr Camara highlighted the need for the UDP to change tack for the party to appeal to voters outside of the party. He said:
“I firmly believe the UDP can secure 250,000 votes from our loyal supporters alone. We have one of the most steadfast bases in Gambian history, but relying solely on our base won't win national elections, especially with about 900,000 registered voters nationwide. This was evident in the low voter turnouts in parliamentary and local elections, where we surprisingly succeeded despite our major defeat in the presidential election.
We can't afford to ignore the opinions and concerns of all Gambians, regardless of their party affiliation. If you believe the UDP should only listen to its members, or worse, only to those who share your views, you're not serving the party — you’re serving your own ego. We must respectfully consider all opinions, even if we disagree with them.
I'm concerned that our party has been so focused on communicating within our loyal base that we've lost touch with the broader sentiments of the country. Our messaging isn't resonating nationally. We need to engage with independent and "silent" voters, and even our contemporaries in other parties, understand their concerns, and reassure them about our party's vision for The Gambia, to persuade them to join our party, or at least give us their votes.”
The UDP must not be complacent or defensive when it comes matters of political significance both within the party and of broader national political landscape.
The Way Forward for the UDP
The UDP must address its leadership conundrum with urgency if it hopes to remain a relevant force in Gambian politics. The party needs to initiate an open and transparent dialogue about its future leadership, ensuring that all voices within the party are heard. This process should involve both the veteran leadership and the younger generation of party members to bridge the gap between experience and youth.
Rather than wait until 2026 to confirm the candidate to challenge the incumbent, be it Hon. Darboe or not, this leadership or flag bearer conundrum should be put to bed, now!
Additionally, the UDP should focus on revitalising its political agenda, emphasising policies that resonate with the broader population, particularly the youth, who make up a significant portion of the electorate. By doing so, the party can position itself as a viable alternative to the ruling NPP.
However, UDP's leadership conundrum present both a challenge and an opportunity. While the internal crisis threatens to divide and weaken the party, it also provides an opportunity for renewal and reinvention. The path the UDP chooses in the coming months and year will determine its role in shaping The Gambia's political future. To remain a cornerstone of Gambian democracy, the UDP must navigate this period of uncertainty with strategic vision and unity or it will die a painful death in 2026.
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