In a significant political development ahead of December’s presidential election, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has announced that prominent figures from the Golden Era Party, Mr. Saikou Sawo and Mrs. Nenneh Cheyassin Secka Kebe, have formally joined the party.
The announcement came in a press statement issued by the PPP, which described the move as “historic and forward-looking.” It follows extensive consultations between PPP leadership—including Party Leader Hon. Ousman Madikay Faal and the Secretary General—and the Golden Era duo. The party emphasized its tradition of inclusion, dialogue, and democratic principles, noting that a representative team engaged in “open, respectful, and purposeful discussions” to foster national unity and a credible political alternative.
The PPP praised Mr. Sawo and Mrs. Kebe as patriotic citizens deeply committed to The Gambia’s progress. It highlighted their civility, issue-focused approach, maturity, and respect for differing views—qualities said to align closely with the PPP’s values of tolerance, unity, and peaceful engagement. The statement expressed pride in their decision to “return home” and invest resources and ideas in national development.
Mr. Sawo, an aspiring presidential candidate who previously launched the Golden Era Party (GEP) in 2025 with promises of integrity, unity, and prosperity, received a warm endorsement. The PPP welcomed his ambition and reaffirmed the separation between the Party Leader role—focused on institutional strengthening and internal democracy—and the Presidential Flag Bearer position. It is committed to a “level playing field,” full institutional support, and resources for Mr. Sawo, the sole aspiring PPP flagbearer candidate, subject to the will of Gambians in the December 2026 vote.
The statement evoked the PPP’s storied legacy as the party that led The Gambia to independence under Sir Dawda Jawara, crediting its founders with uniting the nation and building peace despite limited resources. It positioned the PPP not just as a party but as a “national movement” ready to guide the country into a “Golden Era” of dignity, opportunity, accountable leadership, and shared prosperity.
Mrs. Nenneh Cheyassin Secka Kebe, previously the GEP’s vice presidential nominee and a noted philanthropist, was similarly commended for her contributions and vision.
The PPP called on all members, supporters, regional chairpersons, and structures to extend full cooperation and solidarity to the new members. A press conference to discuss the development is scheduled for January 20 at 10:00 AM at the residence of the Party Leader in Bijilo.
This merger strengthens the PPP’s position as it seeks to reclaim influence in Gambian politics, drawing on fresh leadership to address contemporary challenges.
