The People’s Democratic Organisation for Independence and Socialism (PDOIS) reiterated its dedication to forming a wide political coalition in preparation for the 2026 general election. In a press release issued on Tuesday, the party emphasized the critical necessity for full constitutional, legal, electoral, administrative, and institutional reforms within The Gambia. The PDOIS statement showed its ongoing strategy to engage various political entities in a unified front. The party explicitly stated that its priority is to secure these fundamental constitutional and institutional reforms rather than simply focusing on replacing the current government. This approach, they believe, is essential for lasting change.
Coalition Strategy Detailed
The People’s Democratic Organisation for Independence and Socialism (PDOIS) stated that these key reforms could best be achieved through a credible coalition committed to implementing them. This commitment is viewed as critical to ensuring that any change in government leads to tangible improvements in governance. The party's committee approved ongoing consultations with “Team Gambia 2026”, a coalition initiative specifically designed to unite political forces ahead of the upcoming electoral cycle. PDOIS further instructed its Committee of Bureaus to continue pursuing coalition discussions aimed at delivering significant reform, ensuring these efforts remain a central focus of the party's agenda. The party's Central Committee backed the position that coalition efforts should focus on achieving reforms rather than a mere regime change without meaningful institutional transformation. This strategy reaffirms PDOIS's commitment to foundational changes in The Gambia's governance, positioning reform at the core of its political objectives. The party believes that a truly transformative government must first address the underlying systemic issues through full reforms.
Internal Endorsement and Mandate
The People’s Democratic Organisation for Independence and Socialism (PDOIS) Central Committee convened from July 3 to 4, during which it reviewed and endorsed the work undertaken by its Committee of Bureaus on coalition-building. This internal approval reinforced the party's strategic direction towards forming alliances for the 2026 general election, providing a strong mandate for continued engagement. The Central Committee’s thorough review process ensures that the coalition strategy aligns with the party’s core principles and long-term vision for The Gambia.
PDOIS also recalled a mandate issued by its 2025 Congress, which specifically instructed Halifa Sallah and Sidia Jatta to initiate efforts to establish an inclusive coalition. This coalition's primary objective would be to facilitate a change in government and implement necessary reforms within The Gambia, ensuring a clear pathway for progress. The party's consistent emphasis remains on achieving substantive institutional transformation, viewing it as the bedrock for a more democratic and equitable society. This historical mandate from the Congress shows the deep-rooted commitment within PDOIS to a reform-driven political agenda.
Electoral Participation Plans
The People’s Democratic Organisation for Independence and Socialism (PDOIS) resolved to contest all levels of government in the upcoming electoral cycle. The party plans to participate in the 2026–2027 elections by putting forward candidates for the presidency, aiming to lead the nation with its reform agenda. Additionally, PDOIS will field candidates for the National Assembly elections, seeking to influence legislative processes and ensure the passage of critical reform bills. The party will also contest local council elections, demonstrating its commitment to grassroots governance and ensuring that reforms reach all levels of administration. This decision outlines the party's broad engagement strategy across the country's political landscape, reflecting its determination to secure governance roles at both national and local levels. The resolution shows PDOIS's intent to seek governance roles at national and local levels, complementing its push for a coalition focused on full reforms, thereby ensuring a holistic approach to national development.
Broader Context and Vision
The People’s Democratic Organisation for Independence and Socialism (PDOIS) stated that its primary objective is to secure full constitutional and institutional reforms, rather than focusing solely on replacing the current government. The party emphasized this approach as central to its political strategy, noting a commitment to systemic change over mere political turnover. PDOIS reiterated that any coalition formed for the 2026 elections should prioritize implementing these foundational changes, ensuring that all partners are aligned with this key objective. This vision underpins the party's ongoing efforts to engage various political entities in discussions, seeking partners who share a genuine commitment to transforming The Gambia's governance landscape.