Africa-Press – Gambia. Senior figures in The Gambia’s ruling National People’s Party urged voters in Bantanjang Ward, in the Foni region, to unite behind the party’s candidate, Abdoulie Badjie, ahead of a by-election scheduled for January 2026.
Addressing party supporters, Seedy Ceesay, the NPP’s administrative secretary, warned against what he described as opportunistic political statements and questioned the consistency of the opposition United Democratic Party’s leadership, particularly on the issue of political alliances.
Mr. Ceesay cited past remarks by the UDP leader, Ousainou Darboe, criticizing former President Yahya Jammeh and his close associates, and suggested that any subsequent collaboration with figures linked to Mr. Jammeh would be contradictory.
“As politicians, we should not say things simply for recognition or attention,” Mr. Ceesay said. “People remember what was said before, and it becomes surprising when positions change.”
He urged residents of Bantanjang Ward to remain focused as the election approaches and not to be swayed by rival political messaging.
“The people of Bantanjang Ward cannot be deceived,” he said. “They should remain united and ensure that Abdoulie Badjie wins the election under the banner of the NPP.”
Another senior party figure, Dou Sanno, a presidential adviser, framed the contest as a struggle against political alliances he said lacked coherence and vision. He argued that such groupings could not deliver meaningful development to the people of Foni.
“This seat belongs to those who rejected alliances,” Mr. Sanno said, adding that political actors who “do not belong anywhere” could not effectively advance development in the region.
Mr. Sanno also criticized Almameh Gibba, the National Assembly member for Foni Kansala, expressing dissatisfaction with what he described as a lack of tangible development since Mr. Gibba’s election.
“I am disappointed,” Mr. Sanno said. “Since his election, the people of Kansala have continued to complain that they have not seen any meaningful support or development.”
The Bantanjang Ward by-election is expected to draw significant attention as political parties position themselves ahead of the 2026 polls, with development, alliances, and party loyalty emerging as central themes in the campaign.
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