By: Kemo Kanyi
PASTEF The Gambia has rejected the reasons given by the Gambia Movement for Progress (GMP) for withdrawing from Coalition 2026, maintaining that the coalition’s agreements should be interpreted according to their documented provisions.
GMP recently announced its withdrawal from the coalition, citing concerns over the implementation of its agreements and internal decision-making processes.
In a statement responding to the withdrawal, PASTEF said it was disappointed by GMP’s decision but acknowledged the right of political parties to make their own decisions.
On concerns surrounding a recent coalition programme, PASTEF said the event had run about two hours beyond its scheduled time, resulting in several speakers, including its National Coordinator, being unable to address the gathering.
The party rejected the suggestion that the incident amounted to disrespect towards GMP, saying the limited speaking time was a consequence of programme management.
PASTEF also maintained that Talib Ahmed Bensouda remains the agreed presidential candidate of Coalition 2026.
The party said Bensouda had not presented himself as the presidential candidate of the UNITE Party within the coalition framework.
Regarding political activities organised by individual coalition partners, PASTEF said there was no provision in the coalition agreements preventing member parties from holding their own meetings, rallies or other programmes without prior approval from the coalition executive.
The party also rejected GMP’s position regarding Bensouda’s continued membership of UNITE, saying the coalition agreements did not require its presidential candidate to suspend or terminate his membership of the party.
PASTEF further said the required oath had been completed through the signing of the relevant oath statement.
The party acknowledged the contributions of Bensouda and UNITE to Coalition 2026 but called on all coalition partners to operate according to the same principles and provisions governing the alliance.
PASTEF urged the remaining coalition partners to resolve their differences through dialogue and the mechanisms provided under the coalition agreements.
The party said its commitment to the objectives and principles of Coalition 2026 remained unchanged.