Independence Statement by H.E. ANM Ousainu Darboe, Secretary General and Party Leader of the United Democratic Party

H.E. ANM Ousainu Darboe  Secretary General and Party Leader,  United Democratic Party (UDP)  

Fellow Gambians,  

Today, as we mark 60 years of independence from British colonial rule, we reflect on the journey of our nation with pride, hope, and a renewed sense of purpose. On this historic day, February 18, 1965, The Gambia emerged as a sovereign nation, full of promise and potential. As we celebrate this milestone, we honour the sacrifices of our forebears who fought tirelessly for our freedom and laid the foundation for the nation we call home.

The Gambia has come a long way since independence. We have weathered challenges, celebrated triumphs, and demonstrated resilience in the face of adversity. Our diversity, unity, and shared values have been the bedrock of our national identity. However, as we look back on six decades of self-rule, we must also confront the realities of where we stand today and the work that lies ahead.

Independence was not just about raising our flag and singing our national anthem; it was about building a nation where every Gambian could thrive in freedom, dignity, and prosperity. It was about creating a society rooted in justice, equality, and opportunity for all. Sadly, 60 years on, we must admit that the full promise of independence remains unfulfilled.  

While we have made strides in certain areas, the Gambian people continue to grapple with poverty, unemployment, inadequate healthcare, and a struggling education system. Our youth, who represent the future of this nation, are left disillusioned by the lack of opportunities and the failure of successive governments to prioritize their needs. The dreams of our independence heroes for a prosperous and self-reliant Gambia have been betrayed by poor governance, corruption, and a lack of visionary leadership.

Since coming to power in 2017, the government of President Adama Barrow has failed to deliver on its promises to the Gambian people. The coalition that brought him to power was built on the hope of a new dawn—a Gambia free from the oppression and mismanagement of the past. Yet, seven years on, the Barrow administration has been characterized by inefficiency, corruption, lack of accountability, and a glaring absence of tangible development.  

The Gambian people deserve better. They deserve a government that prioritizes their welfare, creates jobs for the youths, invests in infrastructure, and creates an enabling environment for economic growth. Instead, we have witnessed a government that is more focused on self-preservation than on serving the people. Corruption remains rampant, and public resources are squandered with little to show for it. The Barrow administration has failed to address the pressing issues of unemployment, rising cost of living, security, and the need for quality healthcare and education.  

As we celebrate 60 years of independence, we must also look to the future with hope and determination. The Gambia has the potential to be a beacon of progress and prosperity in West Africa. We have a youthful population, abundant natural resources, and a rich cultural heritage. What we lack is the leadership to harness these assets for the benefit of all Gambians.  

The United Democratic Party (UDP) remains committed to the ideals of democracy, justice, and development. We believe in a Gambia where every citizen has access to quality education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. We believe in a Gambia where the rule of law prevails, and where leaders are accountable to the people. We believe in a Gambia that is united in its diversity and resilient in the face of challenges.  

To realize the Gambia of our dreams, we must demand more from our leaders. We must hold them accountable for their actions and inactions. We must work together to build a nation that prioritizes the welfare of its people over the interests of a few. The UDP stands ready to lead this charge. We are committed to providing the visionary leadership that this country needs to move forward.  

As we celebrate this milestone, let us remember that the true meaning of independence lies in our ability to shape our own destiny. Let us honour the sacrifices of our forebears by working tirelessly to build a Gambia that is free, just, and prosperous. Let us unite as one people, with one vision, and one purpose.  

Fellow Gambians, the future of our nation is in our hands. Let us seize this moment to recommit ourselves to the ideals of independence and to the pursuit of a better tomorrow. Together, we can build a Gambia that we can all be proud of—a Gambia that truly reflects the hopes and dreams of its people.  

Happy Independence Day, and may God bless The Gambia.  

H.E. ANM Ousainu Darboe  

Secretary General and Party Leader,  

United Democratic Party (UDP)