By: Binta Jaiteh
Two presidential advisers have called on Gambian opposition to join the ruling National People’s Party (NPP) alliance ahead of the 2026 presidential election arguing that political cooperation is in the country’s best interest.
Speaking in separate interviews with The Voice Newspaper, the President’s Political Adviser, Henry Gomez, says politics is driven by interests rather than permanent friendships or rivalries.
“There are no permanent friends or permanent enemies in politics, only permanent interests,” Mr. Gomez remarked.
He urged opposition parties to join the NPP alliance and support President Barrow’s bid for another term in office.
“Give us the votes to lead again. Let us come together to develop the country. We stand for the country. President Barrow is a democrat and has delivered significant development,” he said.
Mr. Gomez, who is also Secretary General of the Gambia Party for Democracy and Progress (GPDP), called on Gambians to rally behind the governing alliance before the elections.
Meanwhile, Presidential Adviser Momodou Sabally for his part, predicted that opposition parties would become weakened after the 2026 presidential election, expressing confidence that the NPP would remained the country’s dominant political force.
“We are heading towards one dominant ruling party,” Mr. Sabally said.
Referring to recent political realignments, he said the coming together of political leaders from Jimara Constituency reflected a shared commitment to national development.
“The two major parties coming together to form an alliance demonstrates a commitment to move the country forward,” he added.
Mr. Sabally also expressed doubts about the opposition’s coalition efforts, alleging that differences in interests, ideas and political ambitions would prevent the coalition from succeeding.
“The coalition has collapsed because its members have different interests and ambitions,” he claimed.
He further argued that the Barrow administration has recorded notable achievements in sectors including health, education, electricity, the digital economy and road infrastructure.
According to Mr. Sabally, these developments have strengthened public confidence in the government’s development agenda.
Responding to allegations of corruption against the government, he dismissed the claims, arguing that public funds have been invested in infrastructure and social services, including schools and hospitals.