APP-Sobeyaa has confirmed that it is engaging in discussions with political parties, including the National People’s Party (NPP), over possible alliances and coalition arrangements ahead of The Gambia’s 2026 Presidential Election.

The confirmation came in a statement issued by the APP-Sobeyaa National Executive on Wednesday, in which the party said its Executive was mandated by Congress to explore possible political alliances in the national interest and in the interest of the party.

The party’s acknowledgment of its engagement with the NPP comes as political parties and formations intensify consultations over possible alliances ahead of the 2026 presidential race.

APP-Sobeyaa, however, stressed that its ongoing discussions should not be interpreted as a final decision to join any particular coalition.

“The Executive’s responsibility is to listen, engage, assess and report back to the Party for consideration,” the statement said.

According to the party, the ultimate decision on its political position ahead of the 2026 Presidential Election rests with its Congress.

APP-Sobeyaa also disclosed that its National Spokesperson and Lead Negotiator, Ousainou Bobb, has been designated as the focal point for coalition discussions and approaches made to the party.

The party said Bobb is responsible for engaging on its behalf, communicating its position where mandated and reporting the outcomes of those engagements to the Executive and ultimately to Congress.

The statement comes amid growing political activity surrounding possible realignments ahead of the 2026 election, with parties exploring different coalition and alliance options.

APP-Sobeyaa also sought to distinguish between ongoing political engagement and a formal party decision, urging the public, its supporters and the media not to treat consultations with other parties as evidence of a concluded agreement.

The party said it would publicly announce its final decision on its recent alliance talks and engagements after consultations with relevant party structures and the Executive.

It further called for patience from all interested parties as the process continues.

APP-Sobeyaa maintained that it would make its political decisions independently and would not be influenced by what it described as insults, intimidation or social media pressure.

“We will listen to everyone, but no one will dictate to us,” the party said.

By Adama Makasuba