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By Alieu Jallow
The National Unity Party (NUP) has officially withdrawn from negotiations to form the proposed CHANGE Coalition, ending its participation in an 18-month dialogue facilitated by the APEX Initiative ahead of The Gambia’s December 2026 presidential election.
In a statement signed by its National Executive Committee (NEC) on August 14, 2026, the party confirmed that it would not sign the proposed CHANGE Coalition Agreement, citing strategic priorities and obligations to its membership following extensive internal consultations.
The decision marks a setback for broader opposition efforts to present a unified candidate against President Adama Barrow and the ruling National People’s Party (NPP).
Despite its departure, the party, led by Dr Lamin J. Darbo, commended the APEX Initiative for its role in steering the talks, stating that the decision “in no way diminishes” its respect for the facilitators or the parties continuing with the process.
“NUP expresses its profound gratitude to the APEX Initiative for its exemplary leadership, professionalism, and commitment to fostering dialogue among opposition stakeholders,” the party noted.
Reaffirming its commitment to democratic governance, the party added that it would continue to pursue a national agenda based on accountability, renewal, and equity.
“As we move forward, the NUP will continue to engage with all Gambians and stakeholders in pursuit of a united, prosperous, and democratic Gambia grounded on the rule of law,” the statement concluded.
The departure leaves the remaining CHANGE coalition stakeholders to press forward with alliance efforts as the political landscape recalibrates ahead of the upcoming election.
