By: Kemo Kanyi
The flagbearer of the opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Saikou Sawo has expressed support for the United Democratic Party (UDP) to lead any proposed opposition coalition ahead of the 2026 elections.
He says the UDP should lead the proposed opposition coalition if opposition parties are serious about securing political change.
Sawo made the remarks amid ongoing discussions on the formation of a united opposition alliance to challenge the incumbent government.
His comments come after the Coalition Mediation Taskforce Committee (CMTC), which is facilitating opposition talks, announced the adoption of a candidate-led coalition model for the proposed alliance.
The decision has received support from the newly registered UNITE Movement for Change, led by former UDP Organising Secretary Talib Ahmed Bensouda, which described the model as a broad-based approach capable of attracting wider electoral support beyond party lines.
UNITE said the candidate-led structure would enhance the coalition’s appeal to undecided voters and build on lessons from The Gambia’s democratic experience.
However, Sawo expressed disagreement with aspects of the emerging model, arguing that any genuine effort for political change must prioritize national interest over individual ambitions.
He said political realities and electoral history indicate that the UDP remained the largest opposition party and should therefore play a leading role in any serious coalition arrangement.
“After decades of political struggle, sacrifice, and consistent electoral strength, the UDP has earned its position and arguably the right to make a legitimate case for leading any serious coalition effort,” he said.
Sawo acknowledged that years of political rivalry may have created mistrust among opposition actors but said such differences could be resolved through dialogue and mutual respect.
He argued that cooperation among opposition parties does not require the abandonment of political identity or principles, but represents the most viable path toward electoral success.
“Let us partner, collaborate, and combine our strengths to deliver the change our people are demanding,” he said.
He added that history would judge opposition leaders not by who led a coalition, but by whether they were able to overcome differences in the national interest.
About the Author
