Human rights and political advocate Lawyer Assan Martin has cautioned the United Democratic Party (UDP) against letting emotions drive its political strategies, urging a shift toward maturity, discipline, and issue-based discourse ahead of the 2026 elections.
Speaking to the Voice Newspaper, Lawyer Martin said recent political exchanges in the country have become overly polarized, focusing on personal attacks and provocative remarks between President Barrow of the National People’s Party (NPP) and elements of the UDP leadership. “We don’t need these unnecessary exchanges that are not healthy for democracy. Most Gambians are disappointed with the political mudslinging,” he said.
Martin stressed that the opposition must portray exemplary leadership if it hopes to replace President Barrow. “Party officials, governors, chiefs, and executive members are making negative and unnecessary remarks. This country needs leadership that demonstrates ethics, integrity, and a proven track record. Bigotry and intolerance must end,” he noted.
The advocate warned that while President Barrow’s administration has faced widespread criticism for failures in key sectors including agriculture, health, education, and public service delivery, political actors cannot allow emotions to cloud their judgment. “There are hundreds of reasons why President Barrow should be voted out come December 2026, but falling for political bait will not solve the problems. Both NPP and UDP have contributed to the challenges we face,” Martin said.
Lawyer Martin also highlighted the emergence of a third political option, describing it as a movement aimed at rescuing the country’s political culture. “Our mission is to bring integrity, credibility, and ethics back into politics. We will offer strategies and solutions to move the country forward, always placing the nation above party politics,” he said.
He concluded by emphasizing the need for calm, constructive discourse. “Gambia deserves a new political order. The December 2026 elections will be decisive for Gambian voters. We hope that good judgment and common sense will prevail when choosing the next trusted leader to defend our democracy,” Martin added.
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Human rights and political advocate Lawyer Assan Martin has cautioned the United Democratic Party (UDP) against letting emotions drive its…
The post Lawyer Martin Urges UDP to Avoid Emotional Politics. appeared first on .
