The presidential election in The Gambia is scheduled for 5 December 2026. Ousainu Darboe, leader of the United Democratic Party, addressed supporters at a political rally held in Brikama during the weekend of 10-11 October 2026. During his speech, he focused on the welfare of state employees. Ousainu Darboe stated, "Members of the security services should be able to retire with dignity rather than face poverty or homelessness after years of service." He argued that the upcoming vote represents a turning point for the nation. His remarks addressed the conditions facing former security personnel as the campaign period intensifies ahead of the December poll.
The rally in Brikama served as a primary platform for Ousainu Darboe to outline his vision for the country. As the date of the presidential election in The Gambia, scheduled for 5 December 2026, approaches, the United Democratic Party is intensifying its outreach to the electorate. Ousainu Darboe utilized the event on the weekend of 10-11 October 2026 to emphasize the necessity of structural changes within the state apparatus. By noting the specific hardships faced by those who have dedicated their careers to national security, he sought to differentiate his platform from the current status quo.
Critique of the Current Administration
Ousainu Darboe accused the administration of President Adama Barrow of mismanaging public funds. He specifically criticized the current government for neglecting the agriculture and education sectors. These allegations formed a core part of his address to supporters during the campaign season.
The critique extended to the broader fiscal management of the state, with Ousainu Darboe suggesting that the current allocation of resources has failed to prioritize the needs of the general population. He emphasized that the agriculture sector, a pillar of the national economy, requires immediate attention to rectify the decline he claims has occurred under the current leadership. Similarly, he identified the education sector as a critical area where current policies have fallen short of expectations, impacting the future prospects of the youth in The Gambia.
A United Democratic Party-led government would reform the security sector, according to Ousainu Darboe. He pledged that such an administration would improve the welfare of security personnel to ensure they receive adequate support. These proposed changes are intended to address long-standing concerns regarding the treatment of those serving in national security roles. This reform agenda is presented as a necessary step to restore morale and professional standards among those tasked with maintaining the safety of the country.
Ousainu Darboe promised to revive the economy of The Gambia within a five-year period. He also committed his party to addressing institutional corruption during that same timeframe. These goals are central to the platform he is presenting to voters ahead of the 5 December 2026 election. By setting a clear five-year timeline for economic recovery and the eradication of corruption, Ousainu Darboe is attempting to provide voters with a tangible metric by which to hold his potential administration accountable. He maintains that the combination of economic revival and the strengthening of institutional integrity is essential for the long-term development of the nation.
