Gambia's United Democratic Party pulls out of 2026 coalition talks

The United Democratic Party (UDP) announced its withdrawal from the ongoing negotiations for a 2026 opposition coalition in The Gambia. Party representatives Lamin Manneh and Lare Ceesay left the meeting after stating that the coalition's direction conflicted with UDP's position.

Opposition Coalition 2026 spokesman and lawyer Assan Martin said the emerging alliance will incorporate stronger accountability measures and clearer policy frameworks than the 2016 coalition that toppled former President Yahya Jammeh. He stressed that the coalition aims to rebuild public institutions, advance constitutional reforms and avoid the fragmentation that occurred after President Adama Barrow broke with his former allies. Martin added that the coalition's work will continue even if some groups withdraw.