In a dramatic political realignment less than ten weeks before the December 5 presidential election, APP Sobeyaa leader and Secretary General Essa Mbye Faal has officially joined the ruling National People’s Party (NPP).
Faal arrived at State House on Sunday in a convoy of supporters, where he was welcomed by NPP Deputy Spokesperson Seedy SK Njie. The signing ceremony, which Faal described as “an important day for The Gambia,” formalized APP Sobeyaa’s alliance with the NPP Grand Alliance.
Mr. Faal dismissed speculation that his move was financially motivated. “No one gave me money. APP Sobeyaa and the ruling alliance jointly funded this event,” he said. He emphasized that his decision was driven by a desire to serve the nation, adding: “I have reached a stage in my life where I can no longer reject an opportunity to serve my country if I believe it would contribute to the greater good.”
Faal, who ran as a presidential candidate in 2021 and was once a fierce critic of President Adama Barrow, insisted his past criticisms were never rooted in hatred. He called for an end to insults in Gambian politics, declaring: “Those who say it is game over have made a mistake. It is no longer game over; it is dead and buried. This election is over.”
President Barrow welcomed Faal into the alliance, thanking Allah for the moment and commending Ousainou Bobb and Seedy Njie for facilitating what he described as a “marriage.” Barrow pledged to treat Faal as an equal partner and to honor agreements with all coalition members. He advised Faal to ignore insults, stressing: “The Gambia belongs to Gambians and can only be developed by Gambians.”
The pact adds APP Sobeyaa to the governing coalition as Barrow seeks a third term, marking a significant shift in Gambian politics and reshaping the electoral landscape ahead of December’s vote.
