On Sunday, ANM Ousainu Darboe, the head of the United Democratic Party, called on the nation’s police commander to exhibit “impartial application of the law,” cautioning that the arrest of attorney Borry S. Touray last week runs the risk of strengthening public impressions that the police target opposition figures.
Darboe told sellers at Serrekunda Market that the arrest has sparked “serious concerns” regarding political meddling in the legal system. He urged Inspector General of Police Seedy Touray to make sure that the police are not employed as “a tool for political persecution.”
Darboe addressed the crowd, saying, “We will not stand idly by while selective justice is meted out.” “The IGP must apply the law uniformly to all people, irrespective of their political membership. Don’t let the public create the impression that you are giving your in-law more power to oppose his opponents.
The lack of official action against Agriculture Minister Demba Sabally, who has been accused by critics of making provocative remarks implying possible bloodshed during President Adama Barrow’s reelection campaign, was contrasted by Darboe with the handling of Touray. Darboe pointed out that whereas Sabally had previously harshly criticized Barrow during the 2016 political crisis, labeling him “incompetent, worthless, and inefficient,” he now seems to be able to say this without consequence.
Additionally, he cited remarks made by Mama Jabbie, a well-known member of Barrow’s National People’s Party who has publicly disparaged Touray and the UDP without incurring repercussions. “We are putting you on notice about Mama Jabbie, just as Ebrima Sillah and Mai Fatty put you on notice about Borry,” Darboe stated, alluding to previous cautions made prior to Touray’s arrest by the Works Minister and the leader of the ruling party coalition partner.
Darboe presented the impending 2026 presidential election as crucial for his party and the nation’s democratic legitimacy. He declared, “2026 is not a joke.” “If individuals who once harshly criticized President Barrow now hold influential positions and allegedly speak of bloodshed, then the stakes are even higher for those who endured imprisonment during earlier political struggles.”
The UDP leader was reassured by market leaders, led by Sulayman Dampha, that Serrekunda would have strong support and that they would contribute to a resounding victory next year.
Darboe, who was selected earlier this year to represent the UDP in the 2026 election, called on supporters to step up grassroots organizing. “It is only through your dedication and hard work that we can secure State House,” he said.
Darboe said he was optimistic about his party’s future despite the escalating difficulties. “2026 is the year of the UDP,” he said.
