By Seedy Jobe
The Secretary General and Party Leader of the United Democratic Party (UDP), Ousainu ANM Darboe, has expressed confidence in his ability to defeat incumbent President Adama Barrow in the forthcoming elections, citing growing public dissatisfaction with the government’s performance.
In an interview with Think Africa, Mr. Darboe said he believes the political climate presents a strong opportunity for change. He asserted that Gambians are increasingly ready to vote out the current administration, describing the moment as critical for political transition.
Mr. Darboe attributed his confidence to what he described as the government’s failure to adequately address key national challenges, including poverty and deficiencies in the healthcare system. He raised concerns about the lack of essential medications in hospitals and the increasing number of citizens seeking medical treatment abroad, particularly in neighboring Senegal and other countries such as Turkey, India, and Ghana.
The UDP leader also emphasized the strategic importance of forming a coalition with other opposition parties, noting that such an alliance could strengthen electoral prospects and boost public confidence in an alternative government.
Addressing criticism over his previous support for President Barrow, Mr. Darboe clarified that his backing was never intended to endorse corruption. “When I supported the president, I did not support him to preside over an institution characterized by corruption,” he said, describing corruption as a major impediment to national development.
Mr. Darboe outlined a series of measures his administration would implement to combat corruption, including strengthening the Anti-Corruption Commission, enforcing transparency in asset declarations, and reducing inefficiencies in public spending. He stressed that accountability must begin at the highest level of leadership.
On asset declaration, Mr. Darboe noted that he has consistently made his financial disclosures public and pledged to maintain that practice if elected. He argued that publicizing such declarations enhances transparency and ensures full disclosure, rather than limiting accountability to confidential records.
He further pledged to curb wasteful government expenditure, particularly in areas such as fuel consumption and official travel. Mr. Darboe questioned the necessity of the president attending all international engagements, suggesting that some responsibilities could be delegated to the vice president to reduce costs associated with large official delegations.
Overall, Mr. Darboe presented his agenda as focused on accountability, fiscal discipline, and improved service delivery, positioning himself as a viable alternative to the current administration.
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