The UNITE Party and the National Unity Party (NUP) have formally joined forces ahead of the December 2026 presidential election, unveiling a political alliance centred on tackling what they describe as The Gambia’s three biggest challenges, rising living costs, crime and corruption.

The two opposition parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), describing the agreement as a partnership driven by national interest rather than political expediency.

Addressing supporters at the signing ceremony, UNITE Party leader Talib Ahmed Bensouda said the alliance was born out of a shared belief that political parties have a responsibility to work together whenever the country’s interests demand it.

“This Memorandum of Understanding is not founded on political convenience or electoral arithmetic. It is founded on the conviction that political parties have a duty to work together whenever the national interest demands it,” he said.

Bensouda said the alliance’s campaign would focus on what it calls the “Three Cs” Cost, Crime and Corruption, which he said reflect the everyday concerns of Gambians.

“They are not asking politicians to win arguments; they are asking them to solve problems,” he said.

On the cost of living, Bensouda said the alliance would seek to ease the financial burden facing households across the country.

“We are fighting the rising cost of living that continues to stretch household incomes and make everyday life more difficult for ordinary Gambians,” he said.

He said improving public safety would also be a key priority.

“We are fighting Crime because every Gambian deserves to live in safe communities where businesses can flourish, families can thrive, and young people can look to the future with confidence,” he added.

On corruption, Bensouda argued that the problem deprives citizens of essential services and opportunities.

“Corruption steals medicines from our hospitals, resources from our schools, opportunities from our young people, and trust from our public institutions,” he said.

He added that every policy proposed by the alliance would be measured against whether it reduces the cost of living, improves security and strengthens accountability.

NUP leader Lamin J. Darboe described the alliance as the platform that would form the country’s next government, expressing confidence that the partnership would secure victory in December.

He said an alliance government would be built on respect for the rights of all people living in The Gambia and would create opportunities for citizens to realise their full potential.

Darboe also argued that national development extends beyond infrastructure projects, insisting that strong institutions and effective systems of governance are essential for protecting citizens and ensuring accountability.

He pledged that the alliance would prevent the abuse of public office and ensure that no one is victimised through the misuse of state authority.

Calling on Gambians to support the coalition, Darboe urged those who share its vision to join the UNITE-NUP alliance and mobilise support for its leadership ahead of the December presidential election.

By Adama Makasuba