The United Democratic Party (UDP) is scheduled to sign a memorandum of understanding on Friday, August 14, forming the Gambia First Coalition (GFC). The UDP will formalize this agreement with four opposition political parties and two political movements at the Kairaba Beach Hotel. The GFC announced the impending agreement, which unites the parties and movements behind the UDP in preparation for the December presidential election.
Coalition Partners Detailed
The coalition comprises four political parties: the Alliance for Democracy and Development (ADD), Gambia Alliance for National Development (GANU), Gambian People’s Advancement Party (GPAP), and the People’s Progressive Party (PPP). Additionally, two political movements, Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) and Golden Era Party (GEP), have joined the alliance. The United Democratic Party (UDP) will lead the Gambia First Coalition, which will operate under a collective program, according to sources familiar with the arrangement. This program will involve developing a full government agenda that incorporates elements from the manifestos and policy positions of all participating entities. Following the official signing of the memorandum of understanding, a joint press briefing is scheduled to provide further details.
Background and Strategy
UDP Deputy Administrative Secretary for External Affairs, Lamin Manneh, stated the party was approached by the Gambia First Coalition (GFC) after the UDP withdrew from previous coalition talks with the Coalition of Movement for Change (CMTC). Manneh noted that the GFC achieved within one week what could not be accomplished during fifteen weeks of CMTC coalition discussions. He emphasized the strength of the new alliance, asserting, "With this group coming together with us, our chances are even stronger. We will take over this country on 5th December and govern in the best interest of the Gambian people."
Manneh further clarified the coalition's operational strategy, explaining, "Even though the coalition will be led by the UDP, it will be guided by a collective programme. We will develop a programme of government that reflects our various manifestos and policy positions, which we will present to the Gambian people." He added that the coalition intends to "campaign across the country together in the interest of the Gambian people," expressing optimism that "With like-minded people working together, nothing is impossible." Manneh also noted the current challenges faced by citizens, stating, "Look at our roads, markets, and the cost of living. Gambians are suffering, and they are aware of it. They are ready to remove this government."
UDP's Election Outlook
The alliance is expected to significantly boost the United Democratic Party’s chances of winning the election, according to statements from the party. UDP Deputy Administrative Secretary for External Affairs, Lamin Manneh, expressed confidence that the country will experience change in December, coming through the UDP. Manneh stated, "We will take over this country on 5th December and govern in the best interest of the Gambian people." He emphasized the current hardships faced by citizens, noting, "Gambians are suffering, and they are aware of it. They are ready to remove this government." Manneh noted concerns over infrastructure, market conditions, and the cost of living as key motivators for public support for a change in government. He added that the coalition's unified approach would strengthen its position in the upcoming presidential election.