by Majula Njie
The recent revelations by Alhagie Mamadi Kurang concerning the People’s Democratic Organisation for Independence and Socialism (PDOIS) have not necessarily demystified Halifa Sallah as an individual, but they have significantly undermined the credibility of the party. PDOIS has historically positioned itself as a champion of systemic change, consistently critiquing both President Barrow’s administration and the slow pace of institutional reform under the 2016 Coalition Government. However, the internal dynamics revealed by Kurang—marked by centralized control, unilateral decision-making, and ideological rigidity—may explain the party’s persistent failure to build mass appeal and bridge the gap between its intellectual messaging and the socio-political realities of ordinary citizens.
This exposé has posed an unprecedented challenge to the party’s popularity and the intellectual prestige it previously enjoyed, particularly among segments of the Gambian population inclined to accept PDOIS’s discourse uncritically. Beyond the internal implications for PDOIS, Kurang’s defiance of established political norms and his challenge to a figure as principled—whether genuinely or perceived—as Halifa Sallah may have broader consequences. It has the potential to reshape the national political landscape, with significant implications for the 2026 presidential election.
Kurang’s intervention also indirectly pressures leaders of other political parties, most notably Ousainou Darboe of the United Democratic Party (UDP), to respond to growing public demands for generational leadership transition. Should this pressure lead to the retirement of long-standing figures and the emergence of younger leaders, the political terrain could undergo a radical transformation that might decisively influence the outcome of the next election.
PDOIS, for its part, has long been synonymous with Halifa Sallah and Sidia Jatta, who have alternated in leading the party since its inception. Their consistent ideological positions and principled leadership have earned them respect that transcends party lines and geographical affiliations, particularly among intellectuals. Yet the party’s limited grassroots base and absence of identifiable successors who match the intellectual and political stature of Halifa and Sidia make its future uncertain. In the event of their withdrawal, PDOIS risks losing even its small but dedicated cadre of followers—many of whom may be drawn to emerging parties like Team Sobeyaa, led by Lawyer Essa Faal. This shift could enhance Team Sobeyaa’s appeal among the educated class, presenting a significant challenge to the ruling National People’s Party (NPP) and, to a lesser extent, the UDP.
Meanwhile, the visible absence of Lawyer Ousainou Darboe from active public engagement in recent months has fueled speculation that he may be preparing to hand over leadership of the UDP to a younger generation ahead of 2026. Though there has been no formal declaration, Kurang’s revelations and the resulting public discourse have intensified pressure on Darboe to consider a dignified exit and a transition to a behind-the-scenes role. The party’s greatest challenge lies in managing this succession process effectively. With several competent contenders—such as Yankuba Darboe, Lamin J. Sanneh, and Talib Bensouda—emerging as potential successors, the UDP must ensure a smooth, democratic, and unifying leadership transition.
If the new leader secures Darboe’s endorsement and resonates with the grassroots in both urban and rural areas, the UDP stands a strong chance of winning the 2026 elections, with or without coalition support. Conversely, if the party mishandles the transition—either through internal power struggles or the imposition of a leader without broad support—it risks fragmentation and disengagement from its base, thus easing the path to victory for the NPP.
In conclusion, while Kurang’s revelations were primarily aimed at PDOIS, their ripple effects extend across the political spectrum. The UDP and PDOIS are particularly vulnerable to the evolving demands for leadership renewal. The manner in which these parties respond—especially regarding leadership succession—will be critical in determining the balance of power in the upcoming 2026 presidential elections.
