The United Democratic Party (UDP) and Gambia For All (GFA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to cement their alliance ahead of The Gambia's December 5, 2026 presidential election. This agreement brings together two veteran Gambian politicians with extensive experience at the highest levels of government. The UDP is led by A.N.M. Ousainou Darboe, who served as Vice President under President Adama Barrow from June 2018 to March 2019.
GFA is led by Bakary Bunja Dabo, widely known as BB Dabo, who served as Vice President under former President Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara during the First Republic. The signing of the MoU marks a significant development in Gambian politics, as two former Vice Presidents from distinct eras join forces. Under the terms of the agreement, GFA will support UDP's presidential candidate, Ousainou Darboe, in the forthcoming polls.
The MoU also outlines mechanisms for cooperation and coordination between the two parties during the campaign period. This development comes amid a wave of political realignments and alliance-building ahead of the 2026 presidential election. The UDP has already engaged in broader coalition efforts, including participation in the Gambia First Coalition. Such alliances are seen as crucial in shaping the contest for State House.
According to the Independent Electoral Commission's calendar, the official campaign period will run from November 10 to December 3, followed by a cooling-off day on December 4. Gambians will then head to the polls on December 5 to elect the country's next president. The UDP-GFA pact adds another dimension to the evolving landscape of political alliances in Gambia.
The alliance between UDP and GFA is significant, given the experience and influence of both parties. A.N.M. Ousainou Darboe and Bakary Bunja Dabo are well-known figures in Gambian politics, with a deep understanding of the country's history and political landscape. Their combined support could potentially have a significant impact on the outcome of the presidential election.
The formation of this alliance is part of a broader trend of coalition-building ahead of the 2026 presidential election. Other political parties and groups are also forming alliances and making preparations for the polls. The Independent Electoral Commission has been working to ensure that the electoral process is transparent and fair.
The UDP-GFA alliance has the potential to shape the outcome of the presidential election, which is scheduled to take place on December 5, 2026. The election will be a crucial moment for Gambia, as the country looks to choose its next president.
Key points
- UDP and GFA parties form alliance for December 5 presidential election
- Alliance brings together two veteran Gambian politicians
- Official campaign period to run from November 10 to December 3
