By Fatou Dahaba and Momodou S Gagigo
President Adama Barrow, leader of the National People’s Party (NPP), on Wednesday formally welcomed the Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC) and its leader, Honorable Mama Kandeh, into the NPP-led Alliance, describing the move as a patriotic act that prioritizes the nation’s future over partisan gain.
Addressing GDC executives, NPP officials, alliance partners and guests at the State House in Banjul, Barrow said the development was “not simply about political cooperation or political convenience purposely to win an election.” Instead, he framed it as a “genuine goodwill gesture prompted by our resolve to put The Gambia, our dear motherland, first.”
The President emphasized that despite differing political paths, all patriots share a duty to safeguard peace, security and stability while accelerating national development. He praised Kandeh and the GDC leadership for their “laudable moral courage and patriotism,” noting that the decision demonstrated a commitment to national unity above party interest.
Barrow said the Alliance rests on mutual respect, consultation and a shared vision for a stronger, more prosperous Gambia. He assured supporters that the coalition would continue expanding opportunities for youth, empowering women, improving infrastructure, strengthening the economy and ensuring development reaches every community without discrimination.
“You are all very warmly welcome. Feel at home. This Alliance is your home,” Barrow told GDC members. He pledged that their ideas, skills and energy would be valued as the parties work as a united front.
The President expressed hope that the development would inspire other political parties, civil society groups, youth and women’s organizations to join the Alliance. “Our hands remain open to welcome every Gambian citizen to our government and political family,” he said.
Barrow also called on NPP militants, alliance partners, and supporters at the grassroots and in the diaspora to redouble efforts to strengthen the political base across every district, constituency, and region. “This NPP-led Alliance represents the present and the future, so let the journey continue undeterred,” he declared.
He stressed that the Alliance does not discriminate based on political affiliation, ethnicity, religion, or gender. “What matters is the Gambian nation,” Barrow said, praying that the partners would unite the country and develop it inclusively.
