By Amadou M Jadama
Lawyer Ousainou Darboe, leader of the United Democratic Party has extolled Gambians for showing political maturity during the recent parliamentary election.
In a statement delivered on his behalf by Mariama B. Secka, the Deputy Party at press briefing Thursday, Darboe added that though the candidates were elected under party tickets, but we expect them to represent all of us as a nation irrespective of party.
Madam Secka further said that UDP had pledged and is committed to work for the national interest first, foremost and forever. The UDP leader said the UDP representatives will represent the interests of all citizens and residents in their constituents, including those who voted for other parties and those who did not support any party.
“We look forward to working closely with Coalition partners and others to support President Adama Barrow’s reform and development programmes. I expect them to scrutinize the executive with vigilance and competency, tempered by positivism and a mission for cooperation and united action,” Darboe said.
The leader expressed regret about the small number of women in the parliament. “I take this as an urgent challenge for UDP and other parties. It is now our duty to start internal reforms aimed at achieving gender parity at the next parliamentary election. Our first test will be the municipal elections. A nation that marginalises its women sabotages its development Mr. Darboe added.
Commenting further UDP leader said “democratic election is about fair competition amongst people and parties. Sometimes, there are tensions, sometimes there is anger, yet always, there is love of our country and our people. This is why we are united and harmonious nation,” he said.
He went on: “It is only three months ago, since we liberated our country from dictatorship through peaceful means. Again, the whole world stands in admiration in the way we have conducted this campaign, in peace and good humor. This is our blessing as a country, and this is the new Gambia.”
He concluded: ”Let us not allow anything to undermine this noble heritage. Law and order, justice for all rule of Law, democracy, meritocracy, development with dignity shall never be taken for granted”.
