Supporters of the United Democratic Party in Brikama are deeply divided over the outcome of the recent UDP chairmanship primaries of the Brikama Area Council in the West Coast Region.
A large group of supporters rallying behind Ebrima Sanneh Baba Eaks told The Standard that unless the UDP considers concerns expressed by their camp over the primaries, their choice of candidate may contest as an independent candidate.
Among the concerns reportedly lodged by the Sanneh campaign is that proper procedures were not observed in the primaries, including undue interference by people who hijacked the process from the returning officer and determining the delegates to the primaries.
They further alleged that the vetting of the credentials of the aspiring candidates too left much to be desired, alleging one of the candidates presented a false certificate.
The Sanneh camp lamented that it will be insulting to the people of West Coast Region if an incompetent person got elected as chair at the expense of competent aspirants like their choice.
Mr Sanneh was himself not reached but a close camping official of his confirmed that a petition has been sent to the UDP executive about the process of the first primaries. He said those concerns are very important for the unity of the party in Brikama.
“Imagine if Sanneh had been chosen, even APRC would not dare contest the West Coast chairmanship but they have now put up one because of the trend in the UDP’s choice for candidates. In any case we are waiting for a serious response to our protest and we hope that the party leaders will see the light,” he concluded.
In the first round of the primaries, one Sheriff Sonko came first, followed by Fatou Cham and Ebrima Sanneh.
No new date has been set for the continuation of the primaries.
