In a significant political shift, Hon. Omar Ceesay, former National Assembly Member for
Niamina East, has immediately resigned from the Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC),
accusing the party of betrayal for aligning with President Adama Barrow and the
National People’s Party (NPP). Ceesay, who served in the Assembly until now,
announced his decision in a pointed resignation letter to the GDC’s Senior
Administrative Secretary. His departure reflects growing opposition frustration over
Barrow’s prolonged tenure and the GDC’s recent alignment with the ruling party.
“I have served the party and its ideals as a National Assembly Member,” Ceesay stated,
“But recent shifts, especially the party’s decision to align with President Barrow and the
NPP, have made me reconsider my personal and political convictions.”
He made his stance clear: “No President should serve more than two terms. This is
rooted in my commitment to democracy, good governance, and leadership renewal.”
Ceesay criticized President Barrow’s evolving political plans, accusing him of betraying
the 2016 transformative agenda. “He moved from three years to five, then ten, and now
seeks fifteen years in power, as if running state affairs is like managing a family
business,” he declared.
He ended his resignation with a stark warning: “I cannot support any efforts to help
Uncle Sam secures another term. My time with the GDC is over. Never trust Uncle Sam!”
In the same announcement, Ceesay revealed, after consultations, he joined the Unite
Party led by Talib Ahmed Bensouda.
“Following reflection and consultation with my team, we have unanimously decided to
join the UNITE PARTY,” he said.
He stressed that the decision was for “the good of the people” and promised to share
more on his political plans soon.
The emerging Unite Party seeks to position itself as a viable alternative to both the
ruling NPP and traditional opposition parties. Ceesay’s defection is viewed as a major
boost ahead of upcoming elections, given his experience.
Ceesay’s resignation exposes growing divisions in Gambian politics, as opposition
parties resist President Barrow’s power consolidation. The GDC, previously part of the
coalition that helped Barrow win in 2016, now faces internal dissent over its current
alliances.
GDC leadership has yet to comment officially on Ceesay’s departure. Observers note
his move as a former lawmaker could influence other party members to rethink their
loyalties.
As tensions increase, Ceesay’s transfer suggests that for some opposition figures,
principle outweighs party loyalty.
