Bojang Confident Opposition Coalition Will Emerge, Says Timing Is Crucial

By Seedy Jobe

National Democratic Party (NDP) leader Kebba Madi Bojang has expressed confidence that an opposition coalition will emerge ahead of The Gambia’s presidential election, but insists that discussions about its formation must take place at the right time.

Speaking in an interview with Star TV, Mr. Bojang maintained that opposition parties understand the importance of unity in challenging President Adama Barrow, but cautioned against prematurely revealing plans for a possible alliance.

His remarks came in response to questions about the widely held belief that defeating the incumbent would be difficult without a united opposition.

Asked why he remained optimistic about the formation of a coalition, having expressed similar confidence in an earlier interview, Mr. Bojang said his belief was rooted in the political awareness and judgment of Gambians, particularly opposition supporters.

He argued that those seeking political change understand what must be done and would act when the appropriate moment arrives.

According to him, no amount of public pressure would compel opposition leaders to disclose their coalition plans before they consider the timing appropriate.

Mr. Bojang declined to explain how such an alliance might be formed if the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) approves his presidential candidacy, describing coalition negotiations as a sensitive political undertaking that requires discretion.

He argued that any strategy aimed at unseating an incumbent should be carefully guarded to prevent the government from anticipating or countering it.

“Removing an incumbent is not a long-term programme. Even when you plan it, you should keep quiet about it. It should be short-term,” he said.

Mr. Bojang maintained that the element of surprise was essential to any successful effort to defeat a sitting president, suggesting that opposition parties should avoid publicly discussing their strategies before they are ready to act.

Turning to the possibility of his candidacy being rejected by the IEC, the NDP leader said the party would convene a meeting with its members and supporters to determine its next course of action.

He explained that the party would first seek to establish the reasons behind any rejection, including whether the decision was legally justified, deliberate, or motivated by an attempt to undermine the NDP.

Mr. Bojang emphasized that all Gambians are equal and should be treated fairly throughout the electoral process.

Asked whether he would consider joining another political party if his nomination were rejected, he said such a decision could not be made unilaterally.

He stressed that the NDP operates as a collective political organization and that any decision to support or join another party would require consultation with its membership.

Mr. Bojang said the party would ensure that its members fully understood and participated in any decision regarding a potential political alliance, adding that no one would be left behind.

He reiterated that before considering its political options, the NDP would first need to determine whether any rejection of its presidential candidacy was based on legitimate grounds or other considerations.