The flagbearer-elect of the UDP Lawyer Ousainou Darboe has issued a clarion call to women supporters to play a central role in ensuring victory for the party in next year’s general election, re-emphasising his party’s dominance in the Kanifing Municipality.
In his address to West Coast women leaders, who recently met him at his Pipeline Office, to congratulate him on his election as the UDP flagbearer, Hon. Darboe described the Kanifing Municipality as a UDP stronghold, asserting that every councillor and official within the municipal council attained political office thanks to the party.
“This KMC here is owned by the UDP,” he stated, adding, “When elections are held in 2026, the UDP will shine.”
The long-time opposition leader recognised, highlighted and appreciated the historical contributions of women to the UDP’s growth, noting that women made up 80 per cent of active members and were instrumental in the crusade that ultimately led to the fall of former President Yahya Jammeh.
Darboe’s address came hot on the heels of the recruitment of women from Sanimentereng into the UDP. Darboe encouraged both the newcomers and other UDP members to endeavour to attract supporters from rival parties, particularly the governing National People’s Party (NPP), urging them to bring in even one new supporter per month.
Challenging the stereotypical notion of women in politics, Hon. Darboe told his audience not to accept the notion that their role is confined to “dancing and clapping” or “wearing of nice Asobis.” He emphasised the women’s capacity to broaden the party’s base and consolidate its presence across the country.
The UDP leader expressed confidence in the party’s female militants, saying he has “bestowed his hope on the women” to help secure his victory in the 2026 election. Darboe set an ambitious target for the election, calling on supporters to consolidate their previous performance as he highlighted the strategic political significance of Sanimentereng constituency.
Pledges from key supporters, including Yusupha Cham, aim for a 70 percent victory in the West Coast Region; a milestone Darboe described as crucial for overall success.
Closing his address, Darboe urged UDP members to remain disciplined, humble, and inclusive, ensuring the party remains attractive to new supporters.
He also encouraged anyone without a voter’s card to register, as well as young people, who meet the voting requirements, emphasising the importance of an impressive voter turnout.
Darboe’s remarks underlined the UDP’s strategy of mobilising women as a driving force ahead of the 2026 presidential election with the consolidation of its influence in the Kanifing Municipality and beyond.
