By: Fatou Krubally
Hon. Sulayman Saho, the United Democratic Party (UDP) National Organising Secretary has called on Gambian media to use their platforms to encourage greater unity among opposition parties ahead of the December presidential election.
Saho who is the UDP National Assembly Member for Central Badibou made the clarion call on Tuesday during the Politic Kaacha programme. He argued that a fragmented opposition would strengthen the incumbent’s chances of retaining power, urging journalists to report in ways that promote dialogue rather than deepen political divisions.
“The media have a critical role to play in shaping the political environment,” Saho 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 polarise us.”
Saho recalled the opposition coalition that unseated former President Yahya Jammeh in 2016, saying one of its strengths was disciplined communication among coalition members. According to him, limiting conflicting public statements helped maintain unity and kept the alliance focused on its common objective.
He suggested that the media could make a positive contribution to the country’s democratic process by encouraging cooperation among opposition parties instead of amplifying disagreements.
His comments come as political parties intensify preparations for the December presidential election, with discussions around possible opposition collaboration continuing to feature prominently in the national political debate.
Saho maintained that a united opposition would be better positioned to challenge the incumbent, while reiterating his appeal for the media to play what he described as a constructive role during the election period.
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