Opinion: A Genuine and Formidable Coalition 2026

With due respect to Mayor Talib, I disagree with the assertion that the selection of a coalition flagbearer should completely disregard the size and strength of the constituent political parties.

UMC Leader Talib Bensouda

Any coalition built on mutual respect, fairness, and political reality cannot ignore the support base that each party brings to the table. It would be difficult to justify asking a party with over 200,000 supporters and a nationwide structure to join a coalition, only to dismiss its numerical strength as irrelevant in determining leadership. Numbers may not be the sole criterion, but they are certainly an important factor that cannot be wished away.

Equally important is the quality of leadership. A leader who has consistently demonstrated honesty, integrity, patriotism, political maturity, and unwavering commitment to democratic principles over many years deserves serious consideration. Such credentials should not be overshadowed by vague arguments about "winnability," especially in a political environment where many opposition parties have repeatedly argued that electoral outcomes are often influenced by factors beyond mere popularity.

The office of President demands more than ambition. It requires experience, consistency, sound judgment, integrity, and a proven record of public service. Leadership should be entrusted to individuals who have demonstrated these qualities over time rather than those driven primarily by political expediency or personal ambition.

No single individual should seek to impose a formula on Gambians regarding who should lead a coalition. The process must be guided by consensus, fairness, political realities, and respect for all stakeholders. Above all, we must honour and respect seasoned leaders who have sacrificed, persevered, and consistently demonstrated the qualities required to lead our nation.

If we are sincere about building a united and credible coalition, then honesty, mutual respect, and recognition of both political strength and leadership credentials must guide our decisions.

Hon Momodou Charreh Gibba

Gunjur Ward

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