As the opposition United Democratic Party (UDP) begins a three-day congress in Jarra Soma on Friday, its diaspora outreach organization, UDP-UK, has said its members have pledged D100,000 (about US$3448) towards the event.

According to a statement from S.S Daffeh, an executive member of the UDP-UK, funds have already been disbursed but a confirmation for the receipt of the funds by the Secretariat in Banjul was being expected to be made available soon in the UK. He said a copy of the confirmation will be sent to all members and other 'interested persons as soon as possible'.

UDP is expected to elect a presidential candidate by the end of the congress on Sunday to contest elections next year. 

"I would also like to seize this opportunity to thank all those who have contributed to this fund, and I urge you all to keep it coming and encourage many more people to do the same. Well-done and keep it up", Daffeh said.