Darboe Presents UDP Nomination Papers, Calls for Peaceful December Presidential Election

By Pa Modou Cham

BANJUL, November 9, 2026 – United Democratic Party (UDP) leader and presidential aspirant, Ousainou ANM Darboe, has presented his nomination papers to the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) ahead of the December 5, 2026 presidential election, describing the nomination period as a historic and significant moment in the country’s democratic journey.

Speaking shortly after submitting his papers, Darboe said the nomination exercise, which runs from November 4 to 14, represents an important period for The Gambia as individuals seeking to lead the country formally present their candidatures to the electoral commission.

He described the occasion as particularly significant for him, noting that it could be the last time he presents nomination papers to the IEC.

“It is a very momentous occasion and, for some of us, very historic because it will be the last time I will present my nomination papers to this august institution,” Darboe said.

He used the occasion to appeal to Gambians to exercise restraint and avoid actions or statements capable of undermining the country’s peace and stability as political activities intensify ahead of the election.

“I want to appeal to every Gambian that we should be reasonable and rational, and that we shouldn’t do anything that will disturb the tranquillity and stability of this country,” he said.

Responding to questions about his pledge to serve only one term if elected, Darboe said his proposed single term would focus on delivering fundamental reforms and establishing a lasting institutional legacy.

He identified constitutional reform, security sector reform, economic transformation and civil service reform as key priorities of his proposed administration.

According to him, his government would ensure that Gambians are provided with a constitution that reflects their aspirations while undertaking security sector reforms to improve professionalism and restore pride among personnel in uniform.

Darboe also pledged to lay the foundation for transforming the Gambian economy, with the ambition of moving the country from its status as a least developed country towards middle-income status.

He further promised comprehensive civil and public service reforms, stressing that appointments and career advancement would be based on merit and that public servants would be treated fairly.

On the fight against corruption, the UDP leader reiterated his party’s longstanding position against corruption, claiming that it had previously exposed cases involving alleged financial misconduct, including the reported transfer of US$3 million to Switzerland during the former AFPRC administration and the crude oil controversy.

He said combating corruption would remain a priority under a UDP government.

Darboe also defended his previous position on the constitutional implications of former President Adama Barrow’s proposed three-year transition arrangement, insisting that his stance had been based on his interpretation of the country’s Constitution.

A constitutional lawyer by profession, Darboe argued that had Barrow resigned after three years, the Vice President would have assumed the presidency in accordance with the Constitution, rather than triggering a fresh presidential election.

He urged Gambians to familiarise themselves with the Constitution, maintaining that his position had not changed.

Asked about measures his government would take to ensure transparency and accountability in the recovery, management and disposal of assets identified by the Janneh Commission, Darboe indicated that he had already addressed questions concerning the commission but did not provide further details before the press briefing was brought to a close.

The UDP leader’s nomination comes as political parties and prospective presidential aspirants prepare for the December 5 polls, which will determine the country’s next president.