Opposition parties in The Gambia’s CHANGE Coalition have adopted a draft agreement in principle, moving closer to a unified challenge while leaving the choice of flagbearer unresolved until early next week.
In a statement dated 31 August 2026, the Coalition for Hope, Accountability, National Renewal, Good Governance, and Equity said talks to refine coalition terms had produced a draft deal. Final agreement remains subject to concluding discussions on who will lead the alliance. Parties aim to settle that question by Sunday, 6 September 2026.
Negotiating rules allow participating groups to hold simultaneous bilateral talks with other parties, movements and aspirants. The draft text recognizes the UDP alliance as a bona fide partner.
CHANGE now lists APP Sobeyaa, GFA, the Tabax Rewmi movement and the UDP alliance among its partners, adding four registered political parties and two political movements. Organizers said the effort aims to deliver the “grand opposition coalition” many Gambians have long demanded.
The alliance repeated an open invitation to remaining opposition parties, movements and aspiring candidates. Interested groups were directed to email admin@change2026.org or approach existing members.
APeX, described as the impartial convening body, praised the parties for 19 months of perseverance and constructive engagement. Dr. Jaye Krubally, APeX chairperson, said the sustained talks demonstrated the collective resolve needed to confront the country’s challenges in government.
The coalition thanked the public for patience and continued support as talks enter their final phase on leadership.
