A group of opposition parties engaged in ongoing coalition negotiations has called on Gambians to register to vote ahead of the 2026 presidential election, while providing an update on efforts to form a united front.

In a joint statement issued on Tuesday, 31 March, the parties involved in the APeX Coalition Building Project (CBP) — including All People’s Party Sobeyaa (APP Sobeyaa), Gambia For All (GFA), National Unity Party (NUP), Tabax Rewmi, United Democratic Party (UDP), and Unite Movement for Change (UMC) — urged citizens seeking “meaningful change” to take part in the voter registration process.

They also called on Gambians in the diaspora to encourage relatives and friends at home to register.

The coalition said discussions aimed at forming a “formidable opposition alliance” ahead of the 5 December 2026 presidential election are progressing “cordially”, with parties demonstrating commitment and mutual respect.

According to the statement, negotiators have already reached agreement on several key foundational issues following extensive consultations. However, talks remain ongoing on a number of critical areas.

These include the structure of a potential shared government, with parties working towards an arrangement they say would be inclusive, fair, and capable of ensuring stability and accountability.

The coalition is also considering anchoring any future alliance on a clearly defined five-year national reform and development programme.

Another major issue under discussion is the selection of a coalition flagbearer, with parties exploring a democratic and transparent process.

Despite the progress made, the parties emphasised that negotiations remain ongoing and no binding agreement has yet been signed, stressing the principle that “nothing is agreed until everything is agreed”.

The CBP described the process as inclusive and open to broader participation, inviting other opposition parties, movements, and presidential aspirants to express interest in joining the initiative.

The group said further details about the negotiations and participating figures will be made available through a dedicated website expected to be launched soon.

The parties thanked the public for its patience and support, pledging to continue working “diligently and in good faith” towards an outcome that serves the national interest.