By Haddy Touray
Opposition political parties and movements in The Gambia have signed a voluntary pact, the “Tri-vergence Accord,” aimed at fostering cooperation ahead of the 5 December 2026 presidential elections.
The agreement was formalized during coalition-building talks convened by the Alliance for Political Exchange (APeX) on Tuesday. It provides a framework for engagement among opposition stakeholders and commemorates three events: The Gambia’s Independence Day on 18 February, the start of Ramadan, and the Lent period observed by Christians.
Participating parties and movements included: All People’s Party Sobeyaa (APP Sobeyaa), Gambia for All (GFA), National Unity Party (NUP), Tabax Rewmi Movement, United Democratic Party (UDP), and Unite Movement for Change (UMC). Key representatives were Mr. Essa Mbye Faal (APP Sobeyaa), Mr. Bakary Bunja Dabo (GFA), Dr. Lamin J. Darbo (NUP), Mr. Ahmadou Kah (Tabax Rewmi), Mr. ANM Ousainou Darboe (UDP), and Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensouda (UMC interim leader).
According to a statement released to this medium, the accord is a voluntary, good-faith instrument intended to promote mutual respect, political harmony, and constructive engagement. While not legally binding, it represents a moral and political commitment ahead of the elections.
“The agreement encourages healthy debate and democratic discourse, obliging parties and their supporters to avoid hostile conduct, inflammatory rhetoric, incitement, false statements, or actions likely to provoke violence or public disorder,” the statement said. It also establishes mechanisms for dialogue and mediation to resolve disputes.
Signatories acknowledged the challenges of coalition-building in a multiparty democracy and described the accord as a provisional measure to safeguard ongoing negotiations and foster trust.
The statement noted that the Tri-vergence Accord remains open to other opposition parties, movements, and presidential aspirants. Interested groups can join by contacting the APeX conveners at application@gamapex.org or any existing signatory party.
APP Sobeyaa, GFA, NUP, Tabax Rewmi, UDP, and UMC reaffirmed their commitment to harmonious political engagement and urged members, supporters, and the public to uphold the accord in both online and offline spaces.
