In a hotly contested by-election, the United Democratic Party (UDP) defeated the ruling National People’s Party (NPP) to keep the Massembeh Ward councillor seat.
In response to the win, party head and secretary general Ousainu Darboe hailed the Kiang people, stating that they are ardent UDP supporters.
In the recently finished Mansakonko Area Council by-election, Darboe praised the Massembeh Ward voters for their vision.
According to him, Kiang’s populace is a fervent supporter of the UDP, and the election’s outcome is a resounding indication of the UDP’s triumph in the 2026 presidential contest.
For the sake of the Gambians and the advancement of the nation, he counselled the militants and party members to continue being watchful and together as one people.
NPP candidate Lamin Jarju received 513 votes (42.3%), while UDP candidate Bakary S. Jarju, a native of Massembeh village, received 700 votes (57.7%).
The UDP won handily in three of the four polling places where the election was held, while the NPP only won one:
The success of the UDP makes it abundantly evident that real community involvement cannot be overshadowed by state apparatus and financial might. The election of Bakary S. Jarju, the newly elected councillor, is evidence of the UDP’s continued standing as the main opposition party in The Gambia. Supporters in the area celebrated the victory as a rejection of “empty promises” and a confirmation of the UDP’s dedication to development.
The UDP’s triumph in Massembeh Ward will surely energise opposition supporters across the country as Councillor Bakary S. Jarju is ready to assume office. It lays out a plan for how grassroots activism might overcome the advantages of the ruling party and pave the way for subsequent elections.
A day following the polls in Massembeh Ward, NPP candidate Lamin Jarju congratulated Bakary Jarju of the UDP. In an attempt to promote unity in Kiang, Kiang political heavyweight Lamin Sanneh of OIC and Mansakonko Area Council Chairman Landing B. Sanneh chaired and facilitated the event.
