Darboe Urges UDP Supporters to Set Aside Political Grudges and Win Over Opponents

By Seedy Jobe

The Secretary-General and Party Leader of the United Democratic Party (UDP), A.N.M. Ousainu Darboe, has urged his supporters to put aside political grudges and reach out to members of rival parties, stressing that winning over new supporters is essential to the party’s political ambitions.

Mr. Darboe made the remarks on Sunday during a fundraising event organized by women vendors at Brikama Market, which brought together leaders and supporters of the UDP-led alliance.

Addressing the gathering, the veteran opposition leader cautioned party supporters against allowing political differences to create personal divisions. He encouraged them to engage people outside the UDP rather than isolate or antagonize them because of their political affiliations.

Mr. Darboe emphasized that those who do not currently support the UDP should be the primary focus of the party’s outreach efforts, arguing that expanding its support base is critical to achieving its political objectives.

He also called on party members to uphold The Gambia’s tradition of hospitality by treating new members with dignity and respect, ensuring that those who join the UDP feel welcomed and accepted.

Turning to the purpose of the event, Mr. Darboe explained that the fundraising initiative was not intended to finance the construction of a house, mosque, or bridge, but rather to mobilize resources to strengthen the party’s operations and political activities.

He underscored the importance of financial support in enabling the UDP to organize effectively and pursue its political agenda.

Concluding his remarks, Mr. Darboe reminded attendees that the occasion was a fundraising event rather than a political rally. He suggested that the formal proceedings should have been kept brief, with only one or two speakers, allowing participants more time to enjoy the gathering.

In a lighthearted remark, he also encouraged attendees to enjoy the entertainment without scrutinizing one another’s dancing.