NDP Leader Kebba Madi Bojang Addresses 2026 Ambitions, Opposition Alliances, and Party Funding

By Seedy Jobe

Kebba Madi Bojang, leader of the National Democratic Party, says he is not desperate to become president but would accept the responsibility if Gambians choose him, as he addressed his political ambitions, possible opposition alliances, and questions about his party’s funding ahead of the 2026 election.

Speaking in an interview with Mengbe Kering TV, Mr. Bojang played down suggestions that he was personally determined to secure the presidency, saying leadership ultimately depends on the will of God and the Gambian people.

“It depends on whether Gambians say, ‘Here it is.’ But it will not be a case of Kebba forcing himself and saying he wants it,” he said.

Mr. Bojang said the NDP’s eventual flag bearer could emerge from the party’s grassroots and that he would accept whatever outcome the process produces. He said he had no interest in engaging in public disputes over who should lead the opposition into the election.

What matters most, he said, is defeating President Adama Barrow and ushering in a new government in 2026.

Mr. Bojang also addressed speculation that his relative silence in recent months suggested he was negotiating to join the United Democratic Party. He rejected that interpretation but left the door open to cooperation, saying the NDP was prepared to work with other opposition groups and that alliances should not be ruled out ahead of the election.

Referring to recent remarks by UDP leader and lawyer A.N.M. Ousainu Darboe about having a “long rope” in politics, Mr. Bojang offered a playful response.

“Baba said they have a long rope. Let them keep their long rope and let it not become short,” he said, laughing. “Because if my rope is longer than theirs, then he and his people will join me.”

The NDP leader also faced questions about how his party finances its activities. He defended political fundraising and lobbying as a routine part of building a party, arguing that political organizations must seek financial support both at home and abroad to sustain their operations.

He said it was unfair to single out the NDP over its finances when other political parties also receive support for vehicles, campaigns, and other activities.

Mr. Bojang said he was prepared to disclose the sources of the NDP’s funding, but only if other political parties were willing to do the same.

“If all the political parties come and explain who sponsors them and their sources of income, I will also tell them my source of funding,” he said. “If they want to know mine, I must know theirs first.”

He said financial support for the NDP reflected confidence among its backers that the party could grow into a significant political force and contribute to shaping the country’s future.

For now, Mr. Bojang said, his focus remains on strengthening the NDP and preparing it for the 2026 election, with the broader goal of bringing about a change in leadership and a government capable of advancing The Gambia’s development.