Modou Mboob has announced his withdrawal from the race for Secretary General and Party Leader of the Citizens’ Alliance (CA), citing the need for unity and peace within the party.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Mr Mboob said the decision was taken “in the supreme interest of peace and unity” and followed extensive consultations with regional leaders and supporters.

Mr Mboob declared his intention to contest the party leadership in December 2024, motivated by what he described as a “need to revive the party” following months of inactivity.

At the time, he said, many regional structures had become dormant and the core values of the party, particularly “accountable leadership,” were fading.

However, he acknowledged that recent steps taken by the current leadership under Dr Ismaila Ceesay to revitalise the party had produced encouraging results.

 “They have actively engaged regional structures and successfully convened all regional congresses as mandated by the CA constitution,” he noted.

According to Mr Mboob, it was proposed during consultations that Dr Ceesay be allowed to complete his term in office to avoid divisions within the party.

“As someone who aspires to lead in the interest of the people,” he said, “I believe that listening to the same people, when they speak in unity and on genuine grounds, is not only prudent but noble.”

He added: “A good listener is indeed a great leader, and I have chosen to listen.”

The former leadership hopeful, who described Dr Ceesay as a “dear friend and brother,” said his decision was also guided by a desire to preserve both their relationship and party cohesion.

“Withdrawing from this race… is a small price to pay to preserve both our friendship and party unity.”

Addressing his supporters, Mr Mboob expressed gratitude for their backing and reaffirmed his commitment to promoting transparency and accountability.

 “I understand that some of you may feel disappointed or frustrated… but rest assured that I remain committed to our shared ideals,” he said.

He cautioned against making promises that cannot be fulfilled and urged sincerity and humility in leadership. 

By Adama Makasuba