Haji Sawaneh, UDP National Youth President
By Seedy Jobe
The National Youth President of the United Democratic Party (UDP), Haji Suwaneh, has publicly endorsed veteran politician and lawyer Ousainou Darboe to lead a proposed Grand Alliance aimed at unseating President Adama Barrow in the 2026 presidential election.
In a statement shared on his social media platforms, Suwaneh argued that Darboe’s track record, leadership credentials, and integrity make him the most suitable figure to head a broad-based opposition coalition.
“A party led by someone with a clean track record is not only the way to remove Barrow’s corrupt government, but it’s also a model for coalition formation globally”, he said.
He described Darboe as a leader of “uncompromising integrity,” noting that his “one term, one mission” pledge positions him as the most credible candidate to spearhead critical legal and economic reforms, including the adoption of a new constitution.
“Given The Gambia’s current realities, Ousainou Darboe’s experience, knowledge, and age make him the most qualified candidate to drive necessary legal and economic reforms,” Suwaneh said.
The UDP youth leader further highlighted Darboe’s record in public office, particularly his tenure as Minister of Foreign Affairs and Vice President, as evidence of his competence and integrity.
“Darboe’s tenure as Foreign Minister and VP showcases his capabilities, restoring Gambia’s Commonwealth membership, negotiating a China grant for URR roads and bridges, facilitating the Jambur solar power project, and securing a €1.6 million pledge in Brussels. He left office with a clean record, untouched by corruption allegations”, he emphasized.
Calling on Gambians to rally behind Darboe, Suwaneh urged voters to focus on leadership and long-term national interest rather than emotions.
“Let’s put emotions aside and remember 2026 isn’t just about removing Barrow it’s about choosing a leader who can drive meaningful change and usher in the Third Republic, fulfilling Gambians’ aspirations” he said.
He concluded by stressing the need for a leader with unquestionable integrity and political will to reform the country’s governance framework.
“We have many competent leaders, However, considering how the 1997 constitution empowers the executive president and the privileges they enjoy, changing it requires someone with unquestionable political will, uncompromising integrity, and the maturity to bring a new constitution that reduces the powers of the executive president”, Suwaneh added.
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