The National Unity Party (NUP) has pulled out of negotiations to form the proposed Change Coalition, saying it will not sign the coalition agreement after 18 months of talks.

The decision was announced on Monday by the party under the leadership of Dr Lamin J. Darbo, following a resolution by its National Executive Committee.

The NUP said its decision followed extensive internal consultations and an assessment of its institutional mandate, strategic priorities, responsibilities to its members and the current political situation in The Gambia.

The party, however, stopped short of publicly outlining the specific issues that prevented it from signing the agreement.

The announcement represents a significant development in the opposition’s efforts to forge a united political front ahead of the 2026 presidential election.

The negotiations were facilitated by the APEX Initiative, which has been working to bring opposition stakeholders together under the proposed Change Coalition.

While withdrawing, the NUP praised the initiative for what it described as professional and committed leadership throughout the lengthy negotiations.

The party also commended the participating parties for their maturity and willingness to compromise during the process.

The NUP said its decision was not intended to undermine the coalition or the parties that have decided to continue with the Change process.

It said it recognised the importance of collective political action in promoting democratic governance and wished the coalition success.

The party said it would remain committed to the principles that shaped its participation in the negotiations, including accountability, national renewal, good governance, equity and what it described as hope for the country.

“As we move forward, the NUP will continue to engage with all Gambians and stakeholders in pursuit of a united, prosperous, and democratic Gambia grounded on the rule of law,” the party said.

The announcement leaves questions over the NUP’s next political move as the country approaches the December 2026 presidential election.

The party did not state in its announcement whether it would field its own candidate, enter another alliance or support a candidate outside the Change Coalition.

The NUP’s withdrawal also comes at a critical stage in opposition efforts to avoid splitting votes among multiple candidates in the presidential contest.

For now, the party said it will continue engaging with Gambians while maintaining its commitment to its political principles.

By Adama Makasuba