By Makutu Manneh
Sulayman Saho, National Assembly Member for Badibou Central and member of the United Democratic Party (UDP), has dismissed assertions that the party is against coalition building. He affirmed that the UDP continues to engage with other opposition parties in preparation for the December 5 presidential election.
Saho clarified that the UDP has not taken an official stance on coalition formation, noting that remarks made by party leader Ousainou Darboe reflected his personal opinion rather than the party’s position.
“Darboe did not say this is the conclusive decision of UDP. Darboe was saying, “Usually a small party joins the big party in coalition building,” Saho stated during a recent appearance on Kerr Fatou.
He confirmed that the UDP remains actively involved in broader opposition discussions: “UDP is part of the APEX discussion in forming a coalition. So the party’s doors are not closed for negotiations.”
Describing the upcoming election as a mission to “rescue Gambia,” Saho warned that a third term for President Barrow could have adverse political consequences for all parties in the country. He rejected claims that the UDP is unwilling to join a coalition, calling them “false and misleading.”
When asked about similar remarks made by senior UDP figures, including Lamin Manneh, Saho emphasized that these statements do not constitute official party policy. He stressed that coalition decisions are determined by the party’s executive body and reiterated that the UDP is fully engaged in talks.
Saho concluded by highlighting the historical effectiveness of opposition coalitions in unseating incumbents, reinforcing the party’s commitment to strategic collaboration.
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