The burden of his legacy weighs heavily on Ousainou Darboe, the most consequential political figure in recent decades. The veteran opposition leader defied dictatorship and, even while imprisoned, became the kingmaker who helped Adama Barrow defeat Yahya Jammeh. 

Yet, his legacy and contribution to the democratic transition and transitional justice is deeply complicated. 

By pushing Mr. Barrow to abandon the coalition’s three-year term limit and the restraints on the unchecked presidential powers, Mr. Darboe sparked a dispute that continues to haunt him, undermining his credibility and the democratic transition. 

At 77, Mr. Darboe is surely aware of how little time remains to fulfill his long-held ambition to lead a country he so clearly loves. That awareness now shows, in the urgency, and at times desperation, with which he tries to respond to growing criticisms and unresolved questions about his legacy. 

But more critically, Mr. Darboe has not succeeded in transforming his party into an institution capable of functioning beyond his personal authority – one built on clear vision, internal discipline and the organizational strength required in a modern democracy.