A Gambian-born US Army officer has blasted the United Democratic Party, calling it “the most toxic political party” in the country.

Nanama Keita, once a loyal UDP supporter, has broken ranks after joining dozens of others pushing for new leadership.

Keita and fellow reformists backed Talib Bensouda as the new leader, but hardline party members fought back, sparking a bitter split that saw Bensouda and many quit to start their own movement.

Mr Keita didn’t hold back in a recent post: “You won’t find a more toxic political brand in Gambia than UDP. Gambians must continue to REJECT them.”

The UDP has been contacted for comment.

By Adama Makasuba