Hon. Sulayman Saho, National Organizing Secretary of the United Democratic Party (UDP) and National Assembly Member for Central Badibou, has called on Gambian media outlets to play a proactive role in fostering opposition unity ahead of the December presidential election.
Speaking on Tuesday during the Politic Kaacha program, Hon. Saho warned that journalists could become the first casualties of a government crackdown if President Adama Barrow secures another term while the opposition remains divided.
“The media has a critical role to play in shaping the political environment,” he said. “If there is no change of government in the upcoming December presidential election, the opposition is not united, and the dictatorship we are facing continues, you will be the first to be arrested. Help spread information that will unite the opposition; do not polarize us.”
Hon. Saho drew parallels with the 2016 coalition that defeated former President Yahya Jammeh, stressing that disciplined communication was central to its success.
He noted that limiting contradictory public statements helped preserve cohesion among coalition partners and ultimately delivered victory.
His remarks reflect growing concerns within the UDP and other opposition parties that fragmentation could weaken their chances against the incumbent. By urging the media to encourage cooperation rather than division, Hon. Saho underscored the press’s influence in shaping political discourse during a pivotal election season.
