A broad coalition of Gambian opposition parties and civil society groups has concluded its third strategic session, making steady progress toward forming a united front ahead of the upcoming elections.
The Coalition Task Force, which includes ADD, APP SOBEYA, CCC, APRC No To Alliance, GPAP, PAP, UDP, UMC, NDP, GMP, Wareef, PASTEF Gambia, PRP, GDC, GFA, and several civil society organizations (CSOs), met over the weekend to strengthen collaboration and electoral readiness.
Participants focused on building essential governance frameworks for transparency, discipline, and effective joint action. In a key outcome, the Task Force completed a final review of the proposed Code of Conduct, incorporating clear enforcement mechanisms and penalty clauses to promote accountability and mutual respect among members.
“The adoption of this Code will ensure discipline, mutual respect, and accountability among all coalition members,” the statement noted.
The coalition also initiated work on a Common Agenda Framework, a shared policy platform designed to align visions and priorities for a unified campaign. The General Assembly tasked the Coalition Mediation Committee with reaching out to other groups to prevent further fragmentation of the opposition.
On electoral integrity, members received updates on a legal review of reported voter registration irregularities. The coalition vowed to continue pushing for a free, fair, and transparent electoral process.
A proposed timetable for the Coalition Transitional Mechanism Committee (CTMC) covering May to September 2026 will soon be circulated to guide the implementation of agreed activities.
The Fourth Strategic Session is scheduled for Saturday, 9 May 2026, and will be hosted by the APP Sobeyaa Political Party. The venue will be announced later.
In its concluding remarks, the Task Force reaffirmed its commitment to unity, inclusiveness, and democratic principles. “The progress achieved during this session reflects the shared determination of all stakeholders to work collaboratively in the national interest,” the statement said.
Ebrima Bah, Secretary General of the Coalition Mediation Committee, signed the release.
