Mbemba Sanneh, the National People’s Party (NPP) chairman in Mariama Kunda, officially defected to the United Democratic Party (UDP) on Friday, citing concerns over the country’s current situation. Sanneh made the move accompanied by several village elders, showing the collective nature of his decision. He stated his decision was rooted in the belief that the country needs change, driven by his assessment of the prevailing national circumstances. "I have been with the NPP for a long time, but seeing the way things are, the country needs change," Sanneh said, reflecting on his long-standing affiliation with the ruling party. He added, "I joined the UDP because I believe it is the only solution to the hardship facing the country," indicating his view that the UDP offers the best alternative for addressing the nation's challenges.
Sanneh Cites National Concerns
Mbemba Sanneh, the former National People’s Party (NPP) chairman in Mariama Kunda, articulated his reasons for departing the ruling party and joining the United Democratic Party (UDP). Sanneh stated his long tenure with the NPP did not outweigh his current assessment of the nation’s trajectory, saying, "I have been with the NPP for a long time, but seeing the way things are, the country needs change." His defection, which included several village elders, was framed as a response to prevailing difficulties across the country and a direct result of his concerns over the country’s current situation. Sanneh further explained his choice to align with the opposition, asserting, "I joined the UDP because I believe it is the only solution to the hardship facing the country," firmly stating his conviction that the UDP presents the most viable alternative for the country.
UDP Welcomes New Members
United Democratic Party (UDP) leader Ousainu Darboe formally welcomed Mbemba Sanneh and his followers to the party, acknowledging the significance of their decision. Darboe urged the new members to help expand the UDP's support base through peaceful engagement, emphasizing the importance of community outreach. He stated that Gambians were facing increasing economic difficulties, a situation he believes the UDP is uniquely positioned to address. Darboe described the UDP as the answer to the country’s challenges, presenting the party as a remedy for national issues. Darboe declared, "UDP is the medicine to cure the Gambian pain," using a powerful metaphor to convey the party's potential impact. He further cautioned about the nation's trajectory, stating, "The direction our country is heading, if we do not do something, we will sink," noting the urgency of political action. Darboe also advised, "We are in an election period. Stay out of conflict and do everything with respect and humility," setting a clear expectation for conduct. He added, "If respect cannot give you what you want, disrespect cannot either," showing the futility of aggressive tactics. Darboe concluded by saying the UDP continues to honour members who contributed to the party’s growth, recognizing the value of loyal and dedicated individuals.
Call for Peaceful Engagement
United Democratic Party (UDP) leader Ousainu Darboe urged supporters to maintain peace throughout the election period, specifically calling for the avoidance of conflict. Darboe emphasized the importance of conducting all activities with decorum, stating, "We are in an election period. Stay out of conflict and do everything with respect and humility." He further advised members on the efficacy of respectful conduct in political discourse, particularly during electoral campaigns. Darboe commented on the limited utility of aggression, remarking, "If respect cannot give you what you want, disrespect cannot either," reinforcing the party's commitment to peaceful and dignified engagement. He called on all supporters to remain peaceful during the election period and avoid any form of conflict, stressing that this approach is fundamental to the UDP's values.