The Gambia political landscape shifts ahead of December election

Political realignments are intensifying in The Gambia ahead of the December 5 presidential election. Essa Mbye Faal, leader of APP-Sobeyaa and a former presidential challenger, has formally joined President Adama Barrow’s National People’s Party (NPP)-led Grand Alliance. Faal stated that his decision was based on the national interest and dismissed claims that the move was financially motivated, asserting that he is ready to serve the country in any capacity.

President Barrow praised the alliance, suggesting that the growing coalition makes his re-election certain. He also criticized longtime opposition leader Ousainou Darboe, predicting that the upcoming election would force Darboe into political retirement.

In response, Darboe, leader of the United Democratic Party (UDP), has launched a diaspora mobilization campaign. Addressing supporters in London, Darboe called for Gambians living abroad to provide resources and influence to help defeat the Barrow administration, which he characterized as corrupt. Both the NPP and UDP are actively conducting fundraising and mobilization efforts across international locations, including the United Kingdom and the United States, to secure support for the December vote.