The Gambia First Coalition (GFC), led by the United Democratic Party (UDP), has brought together opposition political parties and movements for the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at formalising their cooperation ahead of the 2026 presidential election.

The signing ceremony is being held at Jama Hall, Kairaba Hotel, where representatives of six political parties and two political movements are expected to endorse the agreement.

The alliance brings together opposition forces under the GFC–UDP Alliance, with the participating groups seeking to strengthen cooperation and present a more coordinated political front ahead of the elections.

Among the parties identified as part of the arrangement are the United Democratic Party (UDP), Golden Era Party and Alliance for Democratic Development (ADD).

Speaking at the ceremony, UDP leader Lawyer Ousainou Darboe described the occasion as a significant step towards political unity.

“Today is a special day, because parties who want to salvage this country came together to empower one another ahead of the election,” Darboe said.

Darboe said the coming together of the opposition groups demonstrates their willingness to work collectively in pursuit of what they consider to be a common national objective.

The MoU is expected to provide a framework for cooperation among the participating parties and movements, including their coordination ahead of the 2026 presidential election.

The formation of the alliance comes as opposition groups continue discussions on how to consolidate their political strength and avoid fragmentation ahead of the polls.

By Adama Makasuba