Top barrister and National Unity Party (NUP) leader, Dr Lamin J Darbo, has said his recent Umrah pilgrimage has strengthened his commitment to what he describes as a leadership model based on sacrifice, accountability and service to the Gambian people.

Dr Darbo, who recently renounced his British citizenship as he prepares for the December 5, 2026 presidential election, made the remarks in a statement shared on the NUP official Facebook page.

He said the spiritual journey serves as a reminder that leadership should not be about personal privilege, but responsibility and humility before God and citizens.

“Fellow countrymen, I bow before God with humility and compassion, but I return to you with resolve,” he stated.

Dr Darbo pledged that if elected president, his administration would prioritise what he called a “government of service, not privilege,” focused on equal opportunity and national transformation.

He promised sweeping reforms across key sectors including the economy, health, education and social welfare.

“We will build a Gambia of equal opportunity, where the sole determinant of your future depends on your ability,” he said.

The NUP leader also vowed to tackle corruption, create employment opportunities for young people and women, reform public health and education systems, and introduce welfare support for elderly citizens.

He further stressed that his party’s agenda is anchored on unity and national development, stating that the National Unity Party seeks to establish “a new covenant with the Gambian people.”

Dr Darbo linked his spiritual experience to his political message, saying Umrah reinforces the need for ethical leadership and accountability.

“Umrah reminds us that true leadership is about sacrifice and accountability. I do not seek power for myself. I seek your trust to serve you, with transparency, with compassion, and with the fear of Allah in all I do,” he said.

He concluded by calling on Gambians to embrace unity ahead of the 2026 polls, saying the country’s progress depends on collective effort and shared purpose.

The NUP leader is expected to intensify his political engagements in the coming months as parties position themselves for what is anticipated to be a competitive presidential race.

By Adama Makasuba