As the nation prepares for the 2026 presidential election, Lamin J. Darboe, the leader of the opposition National Unity Party, used his first political rally on Saturday in the seaside town of Gunjur to position himself as a reform-minded alternative and to lay out a platform focused on social inclusion, development, and transparency.
Speaking to supporters, Mr. Darboe denounced what he called “persistent governance failures,” citing Gunjur’s decades-long lack of consistent access to necessities like clean water.
“Sixty years after independence and after three presidents, people here still struggle to access water,” he remarked. That is unacceptable. We require a government that places a high priority on development and practices open governance.
“We will give women their rights and empower them to contribute meaningfully to national development,” he told the crowd. “And we will strengthen our health care system so that every Gambian can access quality care.”
Speaking to detractors who have questioned his age and preparedness to run for president, Mr. Darboe refuted the claim by pointing to former US President Barack Obama, who was elected at the age of 47. He argued that the greater problem of national rebirth was overlooked by such critique.
“Those who claim that I am too eager to run for office are not considering what is best for The Gambia,” he stated.
Along with pledging that national matters and government decisions will be handled in full public view, Mr. Darboe also promised to run a responsible and transparent administration. He stated, “We want a country where nothing that affects the nation is hidden.” “Everyone must be treated equally, and everyone must know what is happening.” he said.
Mr. Darboe declared that, should he continue to run, he would give up his dual citizenship during the first half of 2026 in an apparent attempt to emphasize his dedication to national service.
He stated, “We want to change the system, not just change the government,” he said. “We want a system that allows us to develop our country in a way no one has imagined before.”
A number of political leaders have indicated their intention to run in what is anticipated to be a fiercely contested and well watched battle for the presidency in 2026, and the rally comes as The Gambia enters an increasingly competitive pre-election period.
