As The Gambia gears up for the 2026 presidential elections, Omar Saibo Camara, spokesman for the Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA), has called for deep reflection and strategic unity among opposition parties to achieve meaningful change.
In a recent statement, Camara emphasized that the nation’s political history underscores the power of coalitions to transform the democratic landscape.
Camara, describing himself as a “little political scientist,” pointed to The Gambia’s electoral record since independence. He noted that no political party has ever ousted an incumbent government through the ballot box. The 30-year rule of Sir Dawda Jawara ended with a military coup, and Yahya Jammeh’s 22-year presidency was toppled only by a broad coalition in 2016. “The pattern is clear: only a coalition has succeeded in changing a government through democratic elections in The Gambia,” Camara said, suggesting this may be a defining trait of the nation’s democracy.
Highlighting the strategic moves of the incumbent government, Camara observed that even those in power have embraced alliances to strengthen their grip on office. “If those already in power see the need for alliances to remain in control, what does that tell us about the terrain facing the opposition?” he asked. This reality, he argued, makes unity not just a strategy but a necessity for opposition parties aiming to survive and thrive in the political arena.
With the 2026 elections looming, Camara urged political actors to prioritize the public good over personal ambition. “Are our political actors ready to rise above personal ambition for the greater public good?” he questioned, stressing the need for “honest, difficult, and strategic conversations” to forge a united front. He believes the coalition model remains the most effective tool for political transformation until a single party can independently secure victory.
Camara’s call to action has sparked discussions among Gambians, with many pondering whether unity will once again be the key to reshaping the nation’s future. As the election nears, his words serve as a rallying cry for strategic collaboration.
