Hon. Suwaibou Touray, secretary general and leader of the People’s Democratic Organization for Independence and Socialism (PDOIS), has said the United Democratic Party (UDP) is seeking to broaden its opposition coalition ahead of The Gambia’s December 5 presidential election.
Touray noted that the UDP’s current alliance has not provided the level of political support the party is seeking, prompting continued outreach to other opposition groups. “UDP are still lobbying because they are not satisfied with their coalition,” he said. “They will not say that, but they are not satisfied, and they want more. That is what is going to give them assurance.”
His comments come as opposition parties intensify negotiations and consultations over possible alliances, with several groups calling for greater cooperation to avoid fragmenting the opposition vote.
Touray emphasised that The Gambia’s democratic transition remains incomplete and urged opposition parties to explore areas of common ground if they are serious about political change.
He added that PDOIS has not yet decided whether to field its own presidential candidate, stressing that participation in a coalition does not necessarily require presenting a candidate.
He further argued that any genuine “grand coalition” must include established political parties with nationwide organizational structures and grassroots support. Touray cautioned against relying primarily on newly formed political movements, saying that parties with proven reach across the country would be critical to building an alliance capable of competing effectively in a national election.
