Opposition leader Ousainou Darboe has used the United Democratic Party’s 30th anniversary to portray the party as a product of The Gambia’s struggle for democracy, while reaffirming its commitment to youth empowerment and political cooperation.

Speaking at the UDP’s anniversary celebration in Brikama, Darboe thanked supporters for making the milestone memorable and reflected on the circumstances that led to the party’s formation.

He said the UDP was established at a critical point in the country’s political history, when democratic institutions had been weakened.

“UDP came at a time when our country was at a crossroads, when democracy was rigged, when our constitution was butchered, when one-man rule was installed,” Darboe said.

He drew a parallel between the circumstances surrounding the formation of the UDP and those that led to the creation of the People’s Progressive Party, saying both parties emerged during periods of political uncertainty.

Darboe said the UDP’s history is therefore closely linked to the struggle for democratic governance and constitutionalism in The Gambia.

He also highlighted youth empowerment as one of the party’s priorities, pointing to the composition of the Brikama Area Council as an example.

According to Darboe, the council has demonstrated the party’s commitment to giving younger Gambians opportunities to take up leadership responsibilities.

“UDP care for youth empowerment,” he said, pointing to the Brikama Area Council, where he said no member is aged 50 or above.

He said the presence of younger people in leadership positions demonstrated the party’s willingness to give the next generation an opportunity to participate directly in governance.

He also praised the party’s coalition partners, acknowledging their contribution to the opposition’s efforts to work together ahead of the 2026 presidential election.

His remarks come as opposition parties continue to reorganise and form alliances ahead of the December 5 presidential election.

Darboe is expected to lead the Gambia First Coalition, an alliance involving six political parties and two movements, in the presidential contest.