Aji Yam Secka, deputy leader of the opposition United Democratic Party (UDP), has spoken publicly about her rift with President Adama Barrow, citing her loyalty to lawyer Ousainou Darboe as the root cause of their differences.

Speaking at the UDP’s non-elective congress held at the Atlantic Hotel in Banjul, the veteran politician detailed the fallout. 

Barrow, a former UDP member, parted ways with the party in 2019 after dismissing Darboe, his political mentor, from the role of vice president. 

The move created a longstanding rift, with Barrow and Darboe frequently engaging in public disputes.

“My problem with Adama Barrow started when I attended a meeting in Banjulunding and urged people to show gratitude to lawyer Ousainou Darboe for his efforts in freeing The Gambia from dictatorship,” Secka explained.

“Since then, Adama Barrow has been angry with me, but I don’t care about his anger. I’ve made my decision, Darboe is my candidate.”

Secka also highlighted the struggles faced by UDP members in recent years, emphasising her unwavering support for Darboe’s presidential bid in the 2026 elections.

“Members of the United Democratic Party have endured a lot of pain, and I have borne my share of the burden. But I will continue fighting alongside my fellow Banjulians until lawyer Darboe is elected president in 2026,” she added.

By Adama Makasuba