The All-People’s Party (APP-Sobeyaa), led by Essa Mbye Faal, has confirmed that it is holding discussions with the ruling National People’s Party (NPP) over a possible political alliance ahead of The Gambia’s 2026 presidential election.
The announcement validates reports published last week by Kerr Fatou and other outlets, which suggested that APP-Sobeyaa was engaged in talks with the NPP. At the time, neither party publicly confirmed nor denied the reports.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, APP-Sobeyaa acknowledged that the NPP was among several political parties and formations with which it is exploring potential alliances.
“The Party Executive has been mandated by Congress to explore and engage in discussions with political parties and formations on possible alliances and coalition arrangements in the national interest and in the interest of APP-Sobeyaa,” the statement read.
The party emphasised that these talks should not be interpreted as a final decision to enter into an alliance. According to APP-Sobeyaa, its executive committee has authority only to engage prospective partners, assess proposals, and report outcomes to the party. Any final decision must be approved by its Congress.
“The ultimate decision on APP-Sobeyaa’s position ahead of the 2026 Presidential Election rests with the Party’s Congress and not with any individual,” the statement added.
The acknowledgment is notable given Mr. Faal’s history of sharp criticism of President Adama Barrow and his administration. Faal, who contested the 2021 presidential election against Barrow, has frequently criticized the government’s record on governance and national issues.
APP-Sobeyaa’s confirmation signals a potentially significant shift in The Gambia’s political landscape as parties begin positioning themselves for the December 2026 polls
