The United Democratic Party (UDP) has retained the Kiang Massembeh ward council seat after its candidate, Bakary Jarju, defeated the ruling National People’s Party (NPP) candidate, Lamin Jarju.

UDP candidate Bakary Jarju secured 700 votes, while hos opponent, Lamin Jarju of the NPP, received 513 votes.

This result was signed and confirmed by Joseph Colley, the vice chairman of the Independent Electoral Commission.

Supporters of the opposition United Democratic Party took to social media to celebrate the victory, describing it as a referendum for the upcomjbg presidential election in 2026, as calls for President Barrow to step down grow louder.

However, supporters of the losing National People’s Party described the result as a “no win, no loss” for any of the contested parties, arguing that since UDP was already occupying the seat, they still retain it.

By Adama Makasuba