The Administrative Secretary of APP-Sobeyaa, Cherno Touray, has mounted a strong defence of the party’s alliance with the NPP, describing it as a decision for “national responsibility over party differences.”
In a statement shared with The Standard yesterday, Touray said the alliance marks a seismic moment in The Gambia’s political journey, but its value will not be judged by the signing ceremony.
“Its true importance will be measured by whether the partnership makes communities safer, expands opportunity, strengthens public institutions, and improves lives,” he said.
Touray said the pact provides a framework for urgent priorities focusing on constitutional reform on a clear timetable, electoral reform and diaspora voting rights, an independent Anti-Corruption Commission, implementation of TRRC recommendations including victims’ compensation, comprehensive security-sector reform, expanded health insurance, agricultural reform for food security, measures to curb price manipulation, civil-service reform with dignified wages, and sustainable, reliable energy.
He said a credible constitution would safeguard rights and limit political interference, diaspora voting would recognise citizenship beyond borders, and an independent anti-corruption body would protect public funds meant for clinics and schools.
On the TRRC, he stressed that reconciliation must be rooted in truth and justice.
Defending APP-Sobeyaa leader Essa Mbye Faal as a principled voice for rule of law, Touray said leadership must be proven through conduct and measurable results, not praise.
He urged citizens to support the pact but hold it to account with clear timelines and transparent updates.
“Party loyalty must never become a reason for silence. This pact must become more than a promise — it must serve as a public standard against which progress is transparently measured,” Touray said.