The United Democratic Party (UDP) has urged Gambians to shun a group it said is falsely parading as party delegates and campaigning for a presidential hopeful other than long-time leader H.E. Ousainou Darboe.

In a statement, the opposition party said it has received “credible reports” of individuals touring the country and misrepresenting themselves as UDP emissaries.

“We categorically state that neither H.E. Ousainou Darboe nor the UDP leadership has sanctioned or authorised any such activity,” the party declared.

Reaffirming its loyalty to Darboe, the UDP said he remains the party’s only presidential flagbearer, chosen through what it described as a transparent and democratic internal process.

“His selection reflects the collective will of our grassroots members and the confidence placed in his integrity, experience and leadership,” the statement added.

The party vowed to present Darboe to the Independent Electoral Commission as its official candidate, urging supporters to stay focused on “a united, accountable and prosperous Gambia.”

The statement also accused President Adama Barrow’s government of “rampant corruption and gross mismanagement,” promising to fight back with a three-point anti-graft plan, stating independent audits of all public institutions, recovery of stolen assets and tougher anti-corruption laws.

Calling the 2021 election a “tragic lesson” in the dangers of misinformation, the UDP warned citizens to be vigilant against “self-interest political schemes” and pledged to hold the Barrow administration accountable.

By Adama Makasuba