GAMBIA DECIDES 2026: TENSIONS MOUNT AS MINISTER WARNS OPPOSITION AND JAMMEH FACTION SHOWS STRENGTH

BANJUL, The Gambia — As the road to the 2026 presidential election heats up, a fierce war of words has erupted between the ruling National People’s Party (NPP) and the main opposition United Democratic Party (UDP), while former President Yahya Jammeh’s loyalists stage a major political comeback. Minister Sillah Issues Warning at Bijilo Rally Speaking at a political gathering in Bijilo, Transport, Works, and Infrastructure Minister Ebrima Sillah delivered a stern warning to the leadership and supporters of the opposition UDP. Addressing party faithfuls, Sillah declared that President Adama Barrow is fully positioned to secure victory in the upcoming general election. Responding directly to opposition rhetoric, Sillah asserted that if the UDP is prepared for political competition, the NPP is even more prepared. He urged UDP supporters to remember that The Gambia belongs to all citizens and warned against any actions that could bring chaos or instability to the nation. Highlighting the loyalty of NPP supporters to the president, Sillah cautioned that any attempts to disrupt public order would be met with strict enforcement of the law. APRC "No to Alliance" Demonstrates Power at Buffer Zone Meanwhile, the political landscape is witnessing an intense crowd competition following a massive rally organized by the APRC "No to Alliance" movement at the Buffer Zone in Tallinding. The faction—which broke away from the main APRC over its coalition with President Barrow's ruling NPP—proved it retains significant grassroots influence similar to the Jammeh era. During this gathering on Saturday evening, Jammeh declared Almami Gibba as the flagbearer of the APRC No To Alliance for the 2026 December election. Hundreds of supporters gathered to rally behind former President Yahya Jammeh, who continues to wield supreme influence