Henry Gomez, a presidential adviser to President Adama Barrow, has said Gambians should not be surprised if United Democratic Party (UDP) leader Ousainou Darboe joins the National People’s Party (NPP) alliance, insisting that political cooperation should be guided by national interest rather than political hostility.

Speaking in the wake of the Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC)’s decision to join the NPP Grand Alliance, Gomez said political leaders should be willing to work together if it benefits the country, regardless of their political affiliations.

“Don’t be surprised to see Ousainou Darboe join the NPP alliance,” Gomez said, adding that politics should not be driven by hatred or personal differences.

He pointed to Darboe’s previous service under President Adama Barrow, noting that the UDP leader had served as Vice President and Minister of Foreign Affairs in the current administration.

According to Gomez, that experience demonstrated that political rivals can work together in government when national interests take precedence.

“If Ousainou joins the government, it is for the betterment of the country because politics is not about hate. We are not enemies,” Gomez said.

His comments come at a time of significant political realignments ahead of the 2026 presidential election.

Yesterday, Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC) leader Mama Kandeh formally joined the NPP Grand Alliance after signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the ruling party and meeting President Barrow at the State House.

The agreement has intensified political debate over the possibility of further alliances as parties position themselves for the next election.

Although there has been no indication from Darboe or the UDP that they intend to join the ruling alliance, Gomez’s remarks are expected to fuel speculation about whether more opposition figures could eventually cooperate with President Barrow.

By Adama Makasuba