The ruling National People’s Party (NPP)–led alliance has taken an early lead in the race toward the 2026 presidential election, according to a newly released opinion poll by the Center for Policy Research and Strategic Studies (CepRass).

The survey places the NPP-led alliance at the top with 46 percent of declared voter support, giving it a clear advantage over its closest challenger, the United Democratic Party (UDP), which secured 20 percent.

While the figures suggest a strong showing for the ruling bloc at this stage, a significant section of the electorate remains uncommitted, leaving the contest far from decided.

CepRass’ findings reveal that 18 percent of respondents are still undecided, saying they “don’t know” who they would vote for if elections were held today.

This sizeable group of swing voters is expected to play a decisive role as political parties step up engagement, refine their messages, and finalize alliances ahead of the December polls.

Support for other political parties remains comparatively low. The survey shows APRC No To Alliance and respondents who preferred not to disclose their choice each accounting for 4 percent.

The United Movement for Change (UMC) follows with 2 percent, while the Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC), PDOIS, APP-Sobeya, and APRC each registered 1 percent. Other parties collectively recorded no measurable support in the poll.

Political observers say the data points to an early advantage for the ruling party but warn against reading the figures as a forecast of the final outcome.

With campaigning yet to fully begin, voter attitudes are expected to shift as parties unveil strategies and court the undecided electorate.

“The high number of undecided voters shows that the race is still fluid,” one analyst said. “The direction this group takes could reshape the entire contest.”

CepRass has emphasized that the survey reflects voter perceptions at the time it was conducted and should not be interpreted as a prediction. With more than a year remaining before Gambians go to the polls, the 2026 presidential race remains open, even as the NPP-led alliance enjoys an early lead.

By Adama Makasuba