By Fatou Sillah
The leader of the United Democratic Party (UDP), Ousainou Darboe, has called on Gambians to support his party in the 2026 elections, arguing that the future and safety of the country’s youth depend on the choices voters make at the polls.
Speaking at an event held at Dr. Momodou Darboe La Dingkuliwo in Sare Bakary, Darboe said only a government that places youth empowerment at the center of its agenda can effectively address irregular migration, locally known as the “Backway.”
He urged voters to support the UDP if they want to put an end to the loss of young Gambians to dangerous migration routes.
“If we do not want the river to take our children again, if we do not want our children to die in the desert, then give your vote to the United Democratic Party,” Darboe said.
The UDP leader also cautioned young people against embarking on the Backway journey, warning that the risks outweigh any perceived benefits.
“Stop using the Backway; it serves no purpose,” he said. “Even if you manage to reach Europe, you may remain in camps for a long time. Europe is changing its laws, and many who are placed in camps are eventually returned.”
Darboe emphasized that young people are not only the leaders of the future but also key actors in shaping the country today through their voting power. He stressed that youth participation in the electoral process is vital for national development.
“The youth are not only the leaders of tomorrow; they are also the leaders of today,” he said. “No one can deny their leadership when they are the ones who elect the president and members of the National Assembly.”
He further encouraged young supporters to take an active role in campaigning for the UDP and mobilizing others within their communities.
“I want all the youth here to be campaign managers for the United Democratic Party and to encourage others to join the UDP,” Darboe said. “If we do that, there will be a UDP government next year.”
Darboe also reminded residents of Sare Bakary of the importance of voter registration, noting that political change is only possible through active participation in elections.
“The people of Sare Bakary have made Dr. Darboe their father in support of Gambian politics, but that support can only be realized through voting,” he said. “And you cannot vote for the UDP if you do not have a voter’s card.”
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