The National Unity Party (NUP) and the UNITE Party are aiming to merge into a single political party after the 2026 presidential election, with NUP leader Lamin J. Darboe describing their newly formed alliance as the foundation of a long-term political partnership.

Speaking after the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two opposition parties, Darboe said the alliance extends beyond the December presidential election and is intended to shape future political cooperation.

He said the immediate priority is to jointly contest the 2026 presidential election before collaborating in the subsequent National Assembly and local government elections.

“The alliance is about coming together and fighting the 2026 presidential elections. From there, we will again collaborate for the National Assembly elections and for the local government elections,” Darboe said.

Darboe revealed that the ultimate goal is for the two parties to unite under a single political movement.

“So eventually we will merge into a party. That’s the idea,” he added.

He also expressed confidence that the alliance has a realistic chance of defeating President Adama Barrow in the December election.

Asked whether the coalition could unseat the incumbent, Darboe replied: “Yes, obviously, it’s a possibility.”

The NUP-UNITE alliance was officially launched this week following the signing of the MoU, with both parties describing the partnership as a step towards building a stronger political alternative and presenting a united front in future elections.

By Adama Makasuba