The 2026 political battle: Opposition unity and what the Gambia Participates survey reveals.

Political commentator Bun Dawda was the guest on AG Radio’s weekly “Voice of the People” programme, where he discussed the changing political landscape in The Gambia ahead of the December 2026 presidential election. Much of the discussion centred on the opposition and its efforts to build alliances strong enough to challenge President Adama Barrow. Bun Dawda looked at the Gambia First Coalition (GFC) and Coalition-2026, comparing their prospects and considering which one could have the greater chance of bringing opposition supporters together. He also shared his views on three leading opposition figures — Hon. Ousainou Darboe, Hon. Talib Ahmed Bensouda and Hon. Essa Mbye Faal. The discussion considered their experience, political support, organisational capacity and ability to attract voters from outside their traditional bases. Bun Dawda further identified some of the difficulties that have continued to frustrate opposition unity. These included disagreements over leadership, individual political ambitions, mistrust between parties and differences over strategy. He also considered what another election victory for President Barrow could mean for the country’s political future. The Gambia Participates survey was another major subject. Bun Dawda discussed the possible significance of its findings for the 2026 election and raised questions about the organisation’s credibility, its methodology and the role of its founder, Marr Nyang. The programme also touched on the controversy surrounding Imam Baba Leigh and allegations of tribal hatred following his recent remarks. Bun Dawda urged Gambians to avoid inflammatory language, personal attacks and ethnic divisions, stressing the need for responsible public debate and national unity. The discussion provided listeners with a broad assessment of the political challenges and choices facing The Gambia as the 2026 election approaches.