06/23/2025
UDP Member Saikou Highlights Grassroots Loyalty Amid Internal Party Tensions
Kanifing, The Gambia – June 22, 2025
A United Democratic Party (UDP) member, Saikou, has issued a heartfelt public statement emphasizing the sacrifices and unwavering loyalty of grassroots supporters, while calling on party leaders to remain united and respectful in the face of growing internal tensions.
In a reflection shared last week, Saikou recounted a recent outreach visit to long-time UDP supporters. Though the location remains undisclosed, he said the visit involved going house-to-house with fellow party members to deliver greetings from UDP leader Ousainou Darboe and to hear supporters’ thoughts on the party’s current direction.
According to Saikou, many of the supporters live in modest conditions and lack formal education, yet continue to show deep commitment to the party’s ideals. He noted that these individuals do not expect personal gain but instead remain loyal out of genuine belief in the UDP’s vision for a better Gambia.
“One particular family told us they contributed D10,000 to support the UDP women’s event held months ago. Considering their living conditions, this was clearly a major sacrifice—but they gave anyway, because they believe,” Saikou wrote.
He directed his message to the party’s executive members, elected officials, and those considered part of the party elite, urging them to recognize and honor the dedication of ordinary citizens who have stood by the UDP since 1996.
“These are the people who have kept this movement alive,” he said. “They may not write eloquent commentaries or appear on TV, but they are the soul of this party. Don’t betray their trust.”
His remarks come at a time when internal divisions have surfaced within the UDP, sparking public debates and leadership questions. Saikou cautioned that such disputes risk alienating the party’s core supporters and undermining public trust.
“When we fight among ourselves, it’s not just the party that suffers—it is these people who are left confused and without context,” he warned. “We owe it to them to lead with respect and to show that differences in opinion don’t have to lead to division.”
He ended with a rallying call for unity and purpose, reminding colleagues that their mission is national in scope: “We have a country to build, and it’s about our people. May we all live to witness that glorious day, Inshallah.”
The statement has since sparked conversation among party members and observers alike, seen as both a plea for internal reconciliation and a reaffirmation of grassroots values.
Reported by LSTV1 Newsroom
For more updates, follow
