In The Gambia, the United Democratic Party (UDP) has confirmed veteran politician Ousainu Darboe as its presidential candidate for the 2026 elections.

Darboe won a decisive 65 out of 75 votes in the party primaries, reaffirming his leadership despite the controversial withdrawal of Talib Ahmed Bensouda, the Mayor of Kanifing Municipality and a rising youth favorite.

His selection underscores the UDP’s choice for continuity as the country heads toward high-stakes polls. Yet, it also exposes internal divisions, with some members pushing for generational change within the party.

Darboe, a long-standing figure in Gambian politics, will now lead the UDP into what is expected to be one of the most competitive elections in recent years.