The Gambia Movement for Progress (GMP) has withdrawn from Coalition 2026, effective September 24, 2026. This decision was made by the party's Executive Committee, according to Professor Sidat Yaffa, GMP Secretary General and Party Leader. In a letter to Coalition Flagbearer Talib Ahmed Bensouda, Yaffa cited several unresolved issues that led to the withdrawal. The GMP played a significant role in the negotiations that led to the flagbearer election on August 8, 2026.
One of the main concerns raised by Yaffa was that GMP was not given a speaking slot at the Brikama SSP rally, despite being the runner-up in the flagbearer election. Instead, a non-coalition member was given a slot above coalition party leaders, which Yaffa described as "belittling" to GMP. This incident highlighted the party's growing dissatisfaction with the coalition. The GMP felt that its contributions to the coalition were not being recognized or valued.
Yaffa also accused UNITE Party supporters of portraying Coalition 2026 as solely a UNITE struggle, presenting Bensouda as a UNITE flagbearer rather than a Coalition flagbearer. He claimed that the UNITE leadership failed to clarify this, leading to confusion among supporters. Furthermore, Yaffa alleged that the flagbearer would often inform the Governing Council of planned meetings without prior discussion or approval, violating the internal democracy and collective decision-making provisions of the coalition agreement.
Another issue raised by Yaffa was that the Coalition failed to ensure Bensouda suspended his UNITE Party membership and took an oath of office on August 8, 2026, as previously agreed upon. This, according to Yaffa, was a clear violation of the undertaking. The GMP had contributed significantly to the 16 weeks of negotiations that led to the flagbearer election and expressed its wishes for the Coalition's success in the future.
The withdrawal of GMP from Coalition 2026 has significant implications for the upcoming presidential election on December 5, 2026. The Coalition's ability to present a united front may be weakened by this development. It remains to be seen how this withdrawal will affect the election outcome and the future of the Coalition. The GMP's decision has sparked discussions about the importance of respecting agreements and the need for transparency within coalitions.
The GMP's concerns about the Coalition's internal democracy and collective decision-making processes are valid. The party's allegations of disrespect and disregard for agreements may have contributed to its decision to withdraw. As the presidential election approaches, it is essential for coalitions to address these concerns and work towards building trust among their members. The GMP's withdrawal serves as a reminder of the challenges that coalitions face in maintaining unity and cooperation.
The impact of GMP's withdrawal on the Coalition's performance in the December 5, 2026 presidential election remains to be seen. The Coalition will need to regroup and reassess its strategy to ensure a strong showing in the election. The GMP's decision to withdraw has also raised questions about the future of coalitions in Gambian politics and the need for parties to work together effectively.
Key points
- GMP cites disrespect for agreements as reason for withdrawal from Coalition 2026
- GMP was not given speaking slot at Brikama SSP rally despite being runner-up in flagbearer election
- Withdrawal may weaken Coalition's ability to present united front in December 5, 2026 presidential election
