Lawyer Darboe’s grand welcoming preparations get overwhelmed as UDP clears October 25th as yellow day

The United Democratic Party (UDP) is gearing up for a massive show of strength as its leader Lawyer Ousainou Darboe returns home on October 25 after his European tour.

Darboe, who travelled with deputy leader Aji Yam Secka and senior officials, is expected to receive a hero’s welcome, with plans already in motion to paint the Greater Banjul Area yellow.

Supporters say the celebrations will show that the UDP remains united and strong.

But behind the excitement lies growing tension. Dozens of members have dumped the party to join Talib Bensouda’s new movement.

The Kanifing mayor, who recently quit as UDP organising secretary, has been accused of betrayal after expressing interest in challenging Darboe for the party’s top spot, despite once vowing not to.

Darboe’s return could reignite the battle for control within the UDP, as loyalists rally around their veteran leader and others back Bensouda’s fresh push.

With elections looming in 2026, the stakes couldn’t be higher for a party long seen as the biggest threat to President Adama Barrow’s rule.