By: Modou Touray

United Democratic Party (UDP) leader and veteran politician Lawyer Ousainou Darboe has officially submitted his nomination papers to the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) ahead of The Gambia’s December 5, 2026, presidential election.

Darboe submitted his nomination on Monday, November 9, 2026, and subsequently addressed journalists, where he pledged that this would be his final attempt to contest a presidential election.

Speaking shortly after completing the nomination process, the UDP leader called on Gambians to avoid being driven by emotions and urged political actors and their supporters to refrain from activities that could threaten the country’s peace and stability.

Darboe said that if elected president, he would serve only one term, during which he intends to establish a lasting legacy through key institutional reforms.

Among his priorities, he identified the delivery of a new constitution that reflects the aspirations of Gambians and comprehensive security sector reforms aimed at ensuring that security personnel take pride in their responsibilities and service to the nation.

Reflecting on his political journey, Darboe said the UDP had consistently championed the fight against corruption since 1996. He further claimed that his party was the only political organisation that pursued accountability over the alleged transfer of three million dollars to Switzerland by the former Armed Forces Provisional Ruling Council (AFPRC) regime.

“A country cannot move forward when there is corruption,” Darboe said.

He also linked the growing number of young Gambians embarking on irregular migration journeys, commonly known as the ‘backway’, to limited opportunities and a lack of hope for the future in the country.

“The kids are hopeless,” he remarked.

The UDP leader further expressed concern over what he described as a lack of public understanding of the country’s Constitution, noting that his views on constitutional matters were shaped by his extensive experience as a constitutional lawyer.

He maintained that his interpretation of the Constitution had remained consistent in his engagements with the Gambian public.

Referring to the political transition involving President Adama Barrow, Darboe argued that had Barrow stepped down after three years in office, the Vice President would have constitutionally assumed the presidency, and Gambians would not have had the opportunity to participate in the election they eventually demanded.

He concluded by urging Gambians to familiarise themselves with the Constitution and develop a better understanding of its provisions, stressing the importance of constitutional awareness in safeguarding democracy and good governance.