By Buba Gagigo
Essa Faal, the leader of the Sobeya-APP political party, has dismissed the notion that only a coalition of opposition parties can unseat President Adama Barrow in the 2026 presidential election, calling such claims a mistake.
“Whoever says it is only a coalition that can unseat Barrow is mistaken. It is a mistake.” Faal said. “Because Adama Barrow had almost 52 percent of the votes, and in the Gambia you can win with 32 percent. So Adama Barrow can lose 32 percent of the votes and get 20 (percent). With that 30 percent, 20 percent of Adama and 10 percent of another person can go to another candidate, which can make that particular candidate win. So to say only a coalition can unseat Barrow is a mistake, but the people saying it also have reasons.”
Faal acknowledged, however, that those advocating for a coalition might have valid reasons for their position. “And their reason might be that Adama Barrow might not lose that number of supporters to another candidate. That’s why they feel the safest option is to form a coalition.” he noted.
While Faal is in favor of coalition-building, he emphasized that the decision on who should lead such an alliance is not for him to determine. “Coalition is good; that’s why I have been calling for it for a long time. Who is the best person to lead the coalition? I am not the right person to answer that because I am a candidate. I am a candidate because I believe I will be able to run the country. I will not steal taxpayer’s money; I believe there will be justice for all; I believe if I travel abroad I will not put my citizens to shame,” he said.
Faal also indicated that he is open to joining a coalition, provided it follows a fair and transparent process. He expressed willingness to support a coalition led by another candidate if the proper procedures are followed.