By Dawda Baldeh
President Adama Barrow has welcomed more than 800 defectors from opposition parties into the ruling National People’s Party (NPP), declaring the party “the people’s choice” and predicting another undisputed victory in the 2026 presidential election.
The defectors, drawn from the United Democratic Party (UDP), Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC), and People’s Democratic Organization for Independence and Socialism (PDOIS), were part of a local women’s group named ‘Compin Boka Halat’. They were formally received at the NPP headquarters in Bundung on Wednesday.
Dressed in ash-coloured NPP African attire, President Barrow praised the party’s leadership and development agenda. “You are welcome to the great party. Today, you are equal to any other member. Feel at home and let’s develop our country,” he said. “NPP is the people’s choice, and everyone is welcome.”
The defectors said their decision was “based on national interests.” Speaking on their behalf, Sukai Jallow, former National Mobilizer of the Coalition of Progressive Gambians, announced her resignation from the pressure group and pledged full support to the government.
“Today, we are here to throw our support to the President and his government,” she said. “We made this decision after carefully examining the developments in the country. We realized that President Barrow is the right person to lead us. Be assured of another term.”
Jallow, who advocates for women’s empowerment, highlighted challenges facing Gambian women, including market constraints, lack of access to funding, and rising living costs. “All that women are asking is for you to support them, we are suffering and we believe you can help,” she pleaded.
Aja Maimuna Baldeh, NPP National Women Mobilizer, welcomed the group, calling their move a “smart decision” and assuring them of equal rights within the party. “At NPP, everyone is equal. You came to the right party, and your decision is smart,” she said.
Dou Sanno, NPP Organizing Secretary, cheered the crowd and encouraged further outreach. “When you go back, get others to come and join. Our mission is to get the support from the opposition. We will do this, and it’s achievable,” he said.
With fewer than three million people and 20 registered political parties, The Gambia is gearing up for a competitive 2026 presidential race, as both the incumbent and opposition intensify efforts to galvanize support.
By Dawda Baldeh President Adama Barrow has welcomed more than 800 defectors from opposition parties into the ruling National People’s Party (NPP), declaring the party “the people’s choice” and predicting another undisputed victory in the 2026 presidential election. The defectors, drawn from the United Democratic Party (UDP), Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC), and People’s Democratic Organization The Fatu Network
