President Adama Barrow has rallied political parties under the Grand Ruling Alliance as he prepares re-election bid in 2026, calling for greater unity and a renewed focus on national development.

At a high-level meeting held in Banjul on Sunday (20 April), Barrow met with regional executives from eight political parties aligned with his National People’s Party (NPP).

These include the APRC, NRP, GMC, Citizens’ Alliance, GPDP, ANRD, and NCP. The Democratic Party was unable to attend due to its ongoing national congress in Brikamaba.

Moderated by NPP Deputy Spokesman Seedy S.K. Njie, the meeting aimed to strengthen the coalition and coordinate an effective strategy for the next election cycle.

In a show of support, party leaders praised Barrow’s leadership and highlighted his government’s achievements.

These include a nationwide electrification programme targeting universal electricity access by the end of 2025, major investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, as well as public sector reforms that have seen civil servant salaries more than double over the past seven years.

The alliance also commended the administration’s commitment to democracy, rule of law, and the protection of civil liberties.

NPP Administrative Secretary Seedy Ceesay said the meeting was a step toward building a unified front for 2026.

Hon. Mai Ahmad Fatty urged all parties to rally behind Barrow as the coalition’s presidential candidate, while Dr. Demba Sabally called for stronger collaboration among regional leaders.

In his closing address, President Barrow thanked the alliance for its support and pledged to prioritise universal access to clean water, healthcare, education, energy, and infrastructure.

He reaffirmed his ambition for The Gambia to become the first African country to achieve full electricity coverage by 2025 or 2026.

He called for all coalition events to be jointly organised moving forward, in a bid to reinforce national unity and ensure electoral success.

By Adama Makasuba