Dr. Alieu Gibba, a Senior Lecturer at the University of the Gambia, has sparked widespread discussion with his optimistic outlook on the emergence of independent presidential candidates for the December 2026 Presidential elections.
Earlier today, Dr. Gibba expressed confidence that “more serious independent candidates will emerge” and could transform The Gambia’s political landscape.
“There is a starting point in every national transformation and presidential race,” Dr. Gibba noted, highlighting the potential for these candidates to make a “huge difference in the near future.”
He pointed to their existing support base among Gambians, including “silent voters,” and emphasized that no political party in The Gambia’s history won elections from its inception. “It all started somehow and elsewhere before finally forming parties and contesting for national elections,” he said.
Dr. Gibba envisioned a transformed Gambia with “better policies and governance” following a decade of new leadership. He predicted a future where the country becomes a “corruption-free nation,” enabling Gambians to invest in industries for self-sufficiency and prosperity. Urging citizens to move beyond “tribal, regional, and partisan politics,” he called for votes based on “competence and progress.”
He appealed to the youth to rally behind credible independent candidates to “take charge of their destiny,” declaring December 2026 the “deadline for The Gambia’s progress.”
Drawing comparisons to African nations like Burkina Faso and Rwanda, Dr. Gibba asserted that The Gambia could progress rapidly if citizens unite beyond ethnic differences. “We have the resources to progress, and nothing can stop that,” he said, emphasizing determination and hard work as key drivers.
Later today, Dr. Gibba clarified that his remarks did not reflect personal political ambitions. “There is nowhere I mentioned about my political ambitions for now. Nonetheless, let’s see how things will unfold in the near future,” he stated. Addressing public reactions, he noted resistance to change among some Gambians and dismissed comparisons to Senegal’s PASTEF party.
“Senegal is Senegal, and The Gambia is a country with a different political climate and colonial influence. What works in The Gambia may not work in Senegal and vice versa,” he explained.
Dr. Gibba also responded to suggestions that emerging candidates should join the United Democratic Party (UDP) due to its established structures. “The citizens of this country have a crucial decision to make. It all depends on us as the deadline approaches,” he said.
With the 2026 elections on the horizon, Dr. Gibba’s statements have ignited debates about the role of independent candidates and the future of Gambian politics as the nation grapples with its path toward progress and unity.
