President Adama Barrow has described the National People’s Party (NPP)-led alliance with the Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC) as a landmark political partnership that puts national interest above partisan politics.

He also called on more political parties and civic groups to join what he described as a collective effort to accelerate The Gambia’s development.

Speaking at the State House during the formal welcoming ceremony for GDC leader Mama Kandeh and his supporters into the NPP-led alliance, Barrow said the partnership was driven by patriotism rather than electoral calculations.

“This historic event is not simply about political cooperation or political convenience purposely to win an election. It is about putting The Gambia, our dear motherland, first,” Barrow said.

The President said the alliance reflects a shared commitment to peace, stability and national development. He added that political differences should never stand in the way of working together for the country’s progress.

Barrow praised Kandeh and the GDC leadership for what he described as a courageous and patriotic decision, saying it demonstrated a willingness to put national unity above partisan interests.

He said the NPP-led alliance is built on mutual respect, consultation and a shared vision for a stronger and more prosperous Gambia.

The President pledged to continue expanding opportunities for young people, empowering women, improving infrastructure, strengthening the economy and ensuring development reaches every part of the country without discrimination.

Welcoming GDC supporters into the alliance, Barrow assured them that their ideas and contributions would be valued as partners in nation-building.

He also expressed hope that the agreement would encourage other political parties, civil society organisations, youth and women’s groups, and other law-abiding associations to join the coalition.

“Our hands remain open to welcome every Gambian citizen to our government and political family,” he said.

Barrow urged supporters and alliance partners to intensify grassroots mobilisation across the country and in the diaspora, describing the NPP-led alliance as “the present and the future.”

He concluded by reaffirming that the alliance is open to all Gambians regardless of political affiliation, ethnicity, religion or gender, saying its overriding goal is to promote unity, peace and inclusive national development.

By Adama Makasuba