Photo Credit: Professor Yerro Mballow
Professor Yerro Mballow, a renowned social and political analyst, has forecast a significant shift in Gambia’s political landscape heading into the 2026 presidential election. According to Prof. Mballow, the opposition parties may have a chance to unseat President Adama Barrow’s National People’s Party (NPP) if they can form a united coalition.
Key Predictions:
Opposition Coalition: Prof. Mballow believes that a coalition featuring prominent figures like Essa Mbye Faal, Talib Bensouda, Mama Kandeh, Halifa Sallah, Ousainou Darboe, Lamin J. Darboe, other new party leaders including Movements, Associations, CSOs could pose a serious threat to the NPP’s chances.
Public Discontent: The analyst cites growing public frustration with the government’s handling of issues like corruption, economic progress, healthcare, and education.
Voting Patterns: Prof. Mballow predicts a “vote of anger” in the 2026 elections, driven by citizens seeking change and accountability.
Challenges for the Opposition:
Leadership Differences: Prof. Mballow notes that opposition parties struggle to unite due to leadership differences, which could hinder their chances of forming a successful coalition.
Credibility: While the opposition’s credibility has risen, the lack of strong party systems could fragment the legislature and undermine governance.
President Barrow’s Chances:
Current Lead: Despite predictions of a potential loss, President Barrow remains the frontrunner, according to some polls, albeit with a slim margin.
Opposition Fragmentation: The opposition’s divided nature could enable the NPP to coast toward reelection, despite widespread public frustration.
In conclusion, while Professor Mballow’s predictions suggest a potential shift in power, the outcome of the 2026 presidential election remains uncertain, with much depending on the opposition’s ability to unite behind a single candidate.
