The United Democratic Party (UDP) has distanced itself from an audio recording circulating on social media that allegedly features a party member making threats against staff of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) and members of The Gambia Armed Forces.

In a statement dated October 12, 2026, the opposition party said the alleged remarks, if verified, were unacceptable and inconsistent with its principles and commitment to peaceful democratic engagement.

The UDP said it did not condone threats, intimidation or language that could undermine the safety, dignity and independence of national institutions.

“The UDP does not condone threats, intimidation, or any form of language that seeks to undermine the safety, dignity, or independence of our national institutions,” the party said.

The party emphasised that the IEC has a constitutional responsibility to administer elections, while the armed forces are mandated to safeguard the country’s sovereignty and security.

It said both institutions must be allowed to carry out their responsibilities in accordance with the Constitution and the laws of The Gambia, free from threats, intimidation or undue pressure.

The UDP maintained that its pursuit of political change was rooted in democratic principles, the rule of law and the will of the Gambian people expressed through credible, free and fair elections.

The statement comes as The Gambia prepares for the December 5, 2026, presidential election, with the party’s National Executive calling on members, supporters and sympathisers to exercise restraint and maintain discipline in their political engagements, both online and offline.

The UDP also urged Gambians across the political divide to reject violence, intimidation and hate-filled rhetoric, stressing that maintaining a peaceful electoral environment was a shared responsibility involving political parties, electoral authorities, security institutions, the media and citizens.

The party said it remained committed to a peaceful, transparent and credible electoral process while continuing to advocate for electoral integrity and accountability through lawful means.

The UDP concluded that the pursuit of political change should never come at the expense of national peace, unity and stability.

The authenticity of the circulating audio and the identity of the person allegedly speaking were not established in the party’s statement.

By Adama Makasuba