By: Tijan .S. Touray
Veteran journalist and political commentator, Demba Ali Jawo has warned opposition parties, particularly the United Democratic Party (UDP), against complacency and potential deception ahead of the 2026 presidential elections.
In a recent opinion piece, Jawo questioned the authenticity of reported divisions within the ruling National People’s Party (NPP), describing them as possible “political traps” meant to distract or weaken the opposition.
Jawo made reference to rumours of a potential breakaway faction within the NPP, allegedly led by senior party figure Kebba Madi Bojang. While some see the move as a genuine internal rift, Jawo suggested it could be a strategic ploy to mislead the UDP and disrupt its stronghold, particularly in the West Coast Region.
“The so-called breakaway group could well be a Trojan Horse by the NPP, aimed at causing the UDP to drop its guard,” Jawo warned. He argued that the NPP’s recent reaction warning against the recruitment of its members contradicts its own past behaviour of absorbing members from other parties, especially the UDP.
Jawo cautioned that such posturing reflects a “lack of respect” for NPP members, treating them as if they lack the right to choose where to align politically. He further urged opposition parties not to fall into a false sense of security, warning that some alleged defectors still appear loyal to President Barrow.
“There are strong signs that this internal conflict may be staged,” he said, pointing to the actions and rhetoric of those aligned with the supposed breakaway faction.
Jawo called on the UDP and other opposition groups to remain focused on their core agenda and avoid being distracted by political theatrics that may be designed to divide and weaken them ahead of the polls.
With 18 months to the 2026 election, he urged opposition leaders to stay vigilant, disciplined, and strategic in their engagements with the public, noting that the road ahead may be littered with deliberate political traps.