By Seedy Jobe
An opposition lawmaker in the Gambia says Ousainu Darboe, the veteran leader of the United Democratic Party, made what he called a “veiled attack” against him at a rally held at the Buffer Zone over the weekend.
Yahya Menteng Sanyang, the National Assembly member for Latrikunda Sabiji and a senior figure in the emerging UNITE movement, said Darboe used a Mandinka expression—kilisikalasa, a term loosely associated with failure or misfortune—to disparage his constituency during an appearance at Buffer Zone. Sanyang said the comment was intended as a personal slight.
Sanyang, who broke with the UDP after disagreements over its flag-bearer selection process, said his departure reflected a broader frustration among younger party members who believe the opposition needs new leadership after successive electoral defeats.
He cited the party’s election record under Darboe, noting repeated losses in 1996, 2001, 2006, and 2011. Although the party joined a coalition that brought Adama Barrow to the presidency in 2016, Sanyang said the UDP’s return to opposition in 2021 marked “another kilisikalasa.”
“1996: Our parents formed the party and invited him to lead, and the results turned KILISIKALASA. 2001 & 2006 all went KILISIKALASA, and 2011 another KILISIKALASA. 2016: President Barrow ended the cycle of Kilisikalasa, allowing UDP militants to enjoy a presidential victory. 2021: We were unfortunately taken back to a state of another KILISIKALASA.” He added that the 2026 election would likely be the final “Kilisikalasa” and potentially the end of the party.
Sanyang suggested that a UDP loss in 2026 would mark the party’s “final” kilisikalasa, adding that Darboe should step aside to give younger leaders a chance. “I hold no personal grudge, but it is time for the party leader to step aside. The youth of the UDP cannot afford to have their leadership potential dimmed for another five years.” Sanyang emphasized that his criticism was driven by a desire for the party and country to progress.
He urged United Democratic Party supporters to defect to the UNITE Party, which, he said, plans to introduce term limits for its presidential nominee. “We invite you to join us in our mission to salvage The Gambia,” he said, stressing the need for new leadership and a fresh approach.
The UMC member underscored his commitment to national service and his intention to play an active role in the 2026 presidential race. “I am focused on serving my country and on electing a president in the 2026 presidential election,” Sanyang said. He added that if he decides to seek another term in the National Assembly, he is confident in the outcome: “If I choose to contest the National Assembly election again, the party leader will realize I am no ordinary politician — I will win by an unimaginable margin.”
Sanyang concluded by reaffirming the UNITE Party’s dedication to good governance, accountability, and national development, urging Gambians to support the party’s efforts to move the country forward.