Democratic Party (DP) Leader Yusupha Dumbuya Pledges Rent Caps, Cuts in Government Spending

By Dawda Baldeh

Yusupha Dumbuya, leader of the opposition Democratic Party (DP), has pledged to introduce strict rent caps and cut wasteful government spending to ease the financial burden on ordinary Gambians and revive the country’s economy.

Dumbuya made the promises this afternoon (4 November 2026) while speaking to reporters shortly after submitting his nomination papers to the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC).

Expressing concern over the rising cost of living and the country’s economic challenges, Dumbuya said his decision to enter politics was driven by a desire to improve living conditions and bring meaningful development to The Gambia.

“I have all it takes to live a dignified life with my family, but when I returned home from the U.S., I realised the country urgently needs development,” Dumbuya said. “This is why I chose to venture into politics, to change the current situation. Nothing is moving in the country.”

Housing reform featured prominently in his remarks, with the DP leader criticising landlords who demand excessive advance payments from tenants.

“The law states that landlords should only request a three-month deposit, yet tenants are regularly forced to pay six months upfront. This will end under my administration,” he declared.

Dumbuya proposed capping monthly rent for a standard two-bedroom house at D3,000 and a fully furnished unit at D4,000. He also pledged to introduce government subsidies to make housing more affordable for low-income earners.

Beyond housing, Dumbuya, who registered the Democratic Party on 1 March 2021, criticised the current administration’s handling of the economy, arguing that ordinary Gambians continue to struggle with rising living costs and limited economic opportunities.

He promised to reduce unnecessary government expenditure and redirect public resources towards essential services, infrastructure and other development priorities.

Appealing directly to voters, Dumbuya presented himself as a candidate who would prioritise the needs of struggling households.

“If you believe that you are poor and you want someone to represent your interests, then vote for me,” he urged.

The DP leader called on Gambians to support his party, promising reforms across key sectors of the economy if elected.