Ousainou Darboe, leader and secretary general of the opposition United Democratic Party, has spoken for the first time since Momodou Sabally’s dramatic defection to the ruling National People’s Party. 

Darboe said Sabally, who was the party’s campaign manager, has the constitutional right to join a political party of his choice.

He urged supporters of United Democratic Party (UDP) to desist from attacking Sabally for joining the ruling party, adding that the latter defected to UDP from another political party.

“It’s his constitutional right, and if anyone blames him about (joining NPP) then you’re violating his right to join a party of his choice. He was in another party before joing the United Democratic Party, and he left to jmjoin his choice of party, that’s fine. So, I wish him all the best in his future,” he said.

Darboe made the comments during UDP’s gala dinner and awards night held at the Gambia Tourism and Hotel School in Kanifing. 

The awards night was to celebrate the party’s 27th anniversary since its formation. 

Reporting by Adama Makasuba