By Seedy Jobe
Kebba Madi Bojang, leader of the National Democratic Party (NDP), says opposition parties will eventually unite in an effort to defeat President Adama Barrow in the 2026 presidential election, despite the divisions that have so far complicated attempts to form a coalition.
In a recent interview with Menbe Kering TV, Mr. Bojang said many Gambians believe the opposition stands little chance of defeating the incumbent unless it comes together. But he argued that coalition talks should not be rushed, saying previous efforts failed in part because negotiations began before parties had a chance to test their political strength.
“If the running has not started and you ask people to come and talk, you end up fighting and hurting each other out of frustration,” he said. “Everyone will be beating his chest, and that is exactly what happened. That is why they could not agree.”
Mr. Bojang compared the political contest to a race, arguing that opposition parties should be allowed to campaign, build support, and assess their strength before entering serious negotiations. He suggested that by October, the political landscape would be clearer and parties in weaker positions would be more willing to compromise.
He dismissed concerns that the opposition’s current divisions could prevent the formation of a coalition, saying the parties are ultimately united by a common objective: defeating the governing National People’s Party.
“This coalition is inevitable,” Mr. Bojang said. “We have all agreed that we are removing the incumbent, so we will eventually come to terms. We will not be divided when the time comes.”
He urged opposition leaders to put aside personal disagreements and avoid allowing current tensions to derail future cooperation.
Mr. Bojang also expressed confidence that the opposition could defeat President Barrow in 2026, maintaining that once the election draws closer, political differences would give way to a broader effort to challenge the incumbent.
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