AIP Leader Yiramang Darboe Withdraws from December Presidential Race Over British Citizenship

Written by: Hadram Hydara

All Inclusive Party (AIP) leader Yiramang Darboe withdrew from December’s presidential election this morning after failing to complete the renunciation of his British citizenship in time to meet The Gambia’s constitutional requirements.

Section 62(2) of The Gambia’s Constitution prohibits individuals holding dual citizenship from contesting the presidency.

In a press statement, Darboe explained that he travelled to the United Kingdom specifically to surrender his British nationality, but the UK Home Office informed him that the process takes approximately six months, with no expedited service available.

“Unfortunately, despite my readiness and commitment to comply fully with the law, the renunciation process could not be concluded within the required timeframe,” Darboe said.

“While it was initially believed that an expedited procedure might be available through a premium service, discussions with the relevant authorities confirmed that no such option existed.”

Following the Independent Electoral Commission’s (IEC) announcement of his withdrawal, Darboe clarified that AIP will neither contest the upcoming election nor endorse another candidate or political party.

“Currently, I wish to make it clear that I am not endorsing any political party or presidential candidate in the forthcoming election,” he stated, adding that AIP supporters are “free to exercise their constitutional right to vote according to their own conscience and judgement.”

Darboe said AIP will now focus on strengthening and expanding its structures nationwide ahead of the 2031 presidential election, when he intends to contest again.