By Arret Jatta
United Democratic Party (UDP) leader and Gambia First Coalition flag-bearer Ousainu Darboe has called on other opposition parties to unite behind the coalition ahead of the December 2026 presidential election.
Darboe made the call on Friday as the UDP joined seven other political parties and movements to formalise the Gambia First Coalition through a memorandum of understanding (MoU).
The event drew a large crowd of supporters and representatives from the coalition partners, making it one of the major opposition political gatherings ahead of the 2026 election.
Darboe said the coalition’s doors remain open to opposition parties that have not yet joined, urging them to put aside their differences and work toward a common goal.
“Let us work together to save our country,” he said, adding that there were no unresolvable issues separating opposition parties.
He said the coalition would pursue a collective campaign, with every partner expected to take ownership of the effort.
“The campaign should be and will be collective,” Darboe said.
He also said the coalition would seek to develop a five-year reform agenda aimed at putting the country on a stronger foundation.
Darboe pledged that a government led by the coalition would focus on delivering results, protecting national resources and restoring pride in The Gambia.
Coalition pushes wider unity
Gambia People Advancement Party leader Papa Fall, speaking on behalf of the coalition leaders, said the country was facing serious economic and social challenges.
He cited the rising cost of living, youth unemployment, poor healthcare, land access challenges and food insecurity among the issues confronting Gambians.
Fall said these challenges required opposition parties to put aside their differences and unite for the benefit of the country.
He outlined the coalition’s proposed priorities, including Gambianisation of commerce, improved healthcare, stronger security, skills-based education, food security and fairer access to land.
He also called for constitutional reforms, including presidential term limits.
More parties expected
Coalition mediator Momodou Satou Dibba said the Gambia First Coalition currently brings together eight political organisations, including the UDP.
He disclosed that talks were ongoing with several other political organisations that could join the alliance.
Dibba said the memorandum provides the coalition with its initial organisational framework, while a more detailed agreement would be negotiated after more parties join.
He said the coalition would focus on promoting its own policies rather than attacking political opponents.
“It would also develop its organisational structure, policy framework and campaign strategy as it prepares for the December 5 presidential election.”