Peoples Alliance Party (PAP) leader Ebrima Tabora Manneh has dismissed claims of his party joining President Barrow’s grand coalition, labeling such reports as "false and fabricated." Manneh stated that the PAP is not engaged in any negotiations with the National People's Party (NPP). The leader of the Peoples Alliance Party, Ebrima Tabora Manneh, has explicitly ruled out any possibilities of his party aligning with President Barrow’s grand coalition, making his stance clear amidst swirling speculation. "Yes, we have left the coalition but we are not in any way negotiating with the NPP," Manneh said, adding, "We are still talking with some opposition partners on a possible alliance or coalition but there is no way we will join the NPP." This definitive statement from Manneh aims to quell any lingering rumors about the PAP's political direction following its recent withdrawal from opposition coalition discussions.
Coalition Withdrawal Reasons
The Peoples Alliance Party (PAP) withdrew from the Coalition of Movement for Change (CMTC) opposition coalition talks after 14 weeks. This significant development saw the PAP exiting discussions that had been ongoing for over three months. The party cited concerns over the coalition’s model and decision-making process as reasons for its withdrawal. These concerns were central to the PAP's decision to disengage from the CMTC. PAP stated that the inclusion of unregistered political parties, movements, and civil society organizations, and granting them the same voting rights as registered political parties, altered the initially agreed framework. This deviation from the original understanding was a critical point of contention for the PAP. The party had initially entered the talks with a clear expectation of how the coalition would be structured and how decisions would be made. This change in structure was a primary factor in the PAP's decision to exit the discussions, as it fundamentally disagreed with the revised operational model. The party emphasized that its withdrawal was a principled stand based on the integrity of the coalition's foundational agreements.
Rumors of NPP Discussions
Reports in some media circles had previously suggested that the Peoples Alliance Party (PAP) was engaged in discussions to join an alliance with the National People's Party (NPP). These rumors circulated following a high-level meeting between PAP leader Ebrima Tabora Manneh and several NPP officials. The occurrence of this meeting fueled considerable speculation within political circles and among the public. The talks between Manneh and the NPP chiefs were reportedly positive, further fueling speculation about a potential collaboration between the two parties. This positive interaction, as reported, led many to believe that a formal alliance could be on the horizon. The media reports noted the perceived warmth of the discussions, contributing to the narrative that the PAP might be considering a shift towards the ruling party.
Manneh's Categorical Denial
Ebrima Tabora Manneh, leader of the Peoples Alliance Party (PAP), has categorically denied the reports suggesting his party was in talks to join an alliance with the National People's Party (NPP). Manneh dismissed these claims as "false and fabricated," directly confronting the media speculation. He affirmed that the PAP is not currently negotiating with the NPP, despite earlier speculation that had gained traction. Manneh's denial serves to provide clarity and set the record straight regarding his party's intentions. "Yes, we have left the coalition but we are not in any way negotiating with the NPP," Manneh stated, reiterating his party’s position. He further clarified that while the PAP is engaged in discussions with "some opposition partners on a possible alliance or coalition," there is no intention to align with the NPP. Manneh’s statement directly addressed the rumors that had circulated regarding a potential collaboration, unequivocally rejecting them. His firm stance aims to remove any ambiguity about the PAP's independent political path.
Future Opposition Plans
Peoples Alliance Party (PAP) leader Ebrima Tabora Manneh confirmed the party is actively engaged in discussions with "some opposition partners on a possible alliance or coalition." These ongoing talks show the PAP's commitment to forming a viable and strong opposition force. Manneh emphasized that these ongoing talks are focused on forming a new opposition front, distinct from the ruling party. The PAP aims to establish a collaborative framework with other parties outside of the National People's Party (NPP). This strategic move indicates the PAP's intention to remain a significant player in the opposition landscape, seeking to build a formidable alliance that can offer an alternative political direction. The party's focus remains on strengthening the opposition and working towards common goals with like-minded partners.