Prominent Gambian lawyer Lamin J. Darboe has spoken openly about the issue of dual nationality as he seeks the United Democratic Party’s (UDP) presidential ticket, saying he is prepared to renounce his British citizenship if selected as the party’s flagbearer.
Darboe, who is contesting in the ongoing flagbearer selection process, described the committee’s handling of the exercise as fair but expressed concern over the rules surrounding dual nationality.
He revealed that he turned down a ministerial appointment from President Adama Barrow in 2017 because the Gambian constitution bars dual nationals from serving as ministers. However, he stressed that the presidency is a different matter, pledging transparency and commitment if given the mandate.
“I am willing to denounce my dual national [citizenship] for the position of president alone, not for a ministerial position. But applying for the presidency, yes, I will denounce,” he said. “I would not mislead anyone about my status.”
Darboe noted that renouncing British citizenship is a lengthy process that takes between two and three months, significantly longer than the time provided since the UDP application process began on August 17. He argued that requiring proof of renunciation at the application stage is impractical.
“In my view, the committee should require a candidate to denounce their citizenship only if they are selected as the flagbearer, not before,” he explained, adding that internal party rules should not override constitutional provisions.
On whether he would support the eventual UDP flagbearer, Darboe stopped short of a firm commitment, saying his decision would depend on whether the process remains credible.
“I have told the party selection committee we have to wait and see the fairness of the process. If we believe the process is fair, we will support. But if we believe it is not fair, then we have to advise ourselves,” he said.
Darboe maintained that his qualifications, education, and professional experience make him a strong candidate to lead The Gambia, adding that he could take the country to greater heights than any of its past presidents.
