Gambian Comrades,
Today, as we celebrate 60 years of our nation’s independence from British colonial rule, we reflect on our journey with pride, hope, and a renewed sense of determination. On this historic day, February 18, 1965, The Gambia became a sovereign nation, full of promise and potential. As we mark this milestone, we pay tribute to the sacrifices of our ancestors who fought relentlessly for our freedom and laid the foundation for the nation we proudly call home.
The Gambia has come a long way since independence. We have overcome challenges, celebrated triumphs, and demonstrated resilience in the face of adversity. Our diversity, unity, and shared values have been the cornerstone of our national identity. However, as we look back on six decades of self-rule, we must also confront the realities of our present situation and the work that lies ahead.
Independence was never 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 based on justice, equality, and opportunity for all. Unfortunately, 60 years later, we must acknowledge that the promise of independence has yet to be fulfilled.
While progress has been made in some areas, the Gambian people continue to struggle with poverty, unemployment, inadequate healthcare, and a failing education system. Our youth, who represent the future of this nation, are 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 the absence of visionary leadership.
Since coming to power in 2017, President Adama Barrow’s government 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 era—a Gambia free from oppression and mismanagement. Yet, seven years later, the Barrow administration has been marked 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 well-being, creates jobs for the youth, invests in infrastructure, and fosters an environment for economic growth. Instead, we have witnessed a government more focused on self-preservation than on serving the people. Corruption remains rampant, and public resources are squandered without meaningful results. The Barrow administration has failed to address the urgent issues of unemployment, the 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 become a model of progress and prosperity in West Africa. We have a young population, abundant natural resources, and a rich cultural heritage. What we lack is the leadership necessary to harness these assets for the benefit of all Gambians.
The United Democratic Party (UDP) remains committed to the principles 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 leaders are held 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 well-being of its people over the interests of a few. The UDP is ready to lead this charge. We are committed to providing the visionary leadership this country needs to move forward.
As we celebrate this significant milestone, let us remember that the true meaning of independence lies in our ability to shape our own destiny. Let us honor the sacrifices of our ancestors by working tirelessly to build a free, just, and prosperous Gambia. Let us unite as one people, with a shared vision and purpose.
Gambian Comrades, the future of our nation is in our hands. Let us seize this moment to renew our commitment to the ideals of independence and the pursuit of a better future. 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.
His Excellency Ousainu Darboe
Secretary General & Party Leader,
United Democratic Party (UDP)
