Africa-Press – Gambia. Mama Kandeh, Party Leader and Secretary General of the Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC), has dismissed rumors suggesting he has formed a political alliance with President Adama Barrow’s National People’s Party (NPP). Speaking publicly on the matter, Kandeh clarified that no such alliance currently exists but emphasized his openness to dialogue.
“Up to this moment, President Adama Barrow has not called me to discuss forming an alliance. He hasn’t called me yet, but I’m not saying he won’t. I am reaching out to other parties myself, and some have already contacted me — that’s perfectly normal in politics. So, why wouldn’t Barrow call me? And if he does, I will answer,” Kandeh stated. “If I choose to meet him, I could even announce it on TV or radio — no one can stop me.”
Kandeh also addressed the circulating claims that he has already aligned himself with the NPP.
“I’ve heard the rumors that Mama Kandeh has made an agreement with President Barrow or that an alliance has been formed. I am hearing this just like everyone else. The GDC is a legally registered political party with established structures across The Gambia. If we were to form an alliance, it would not be a secret,” he said.
He further emphasized that any significant decision concerning the party would be made in consultation with the GDC executive. “As party leader, I cannot make such agreements without informing my executive. I have not told them about any such alliance because none exists,” he explained.
Responding to critics who claim he has changed his political stance, Kandeh firmly rejected the accusation. “Some people are saying on social media that Kandeh has changed his tone. I have never changed my tone. The reason we contested the 2016 election is still our reason today — for the development of The Gambia and national unity. That has always been GDC’s position.”
Kandeh made it clear that if, in the future, he reaches an agreement with President Barrow that he believes will benefit national development, he will announce it openly.
“If I ever reach an agreement with Barrow and believe it is in the best interest of the country, I will sign that agreement publicly — even at the Independence Stadium. I would not hide it because I am not afraid, especially of those who are not even members of my party,” he asserted.
Addressing the intense social media discussions surrounding his interactions with political leaders, Kandeh remarked, “When Mama Kandeh speaks with Ousainou Darboe, it becomes an issue. When I speak with Adama Barrow, it’s a problem. The GDC should actually be thankful. Let’s understand why this creates such concern. When you talk about the major political parties in this country, if you remove these three — NPP, UDP, and GDC — there’s not much left. Everyone knows that whoever GDC aligns with has the power to change the game.”
He concluded by suggesting that this is why there is heightened noise and speculation online. “That’s what all this noise is about. Some people think we should not engage with anyone. GDC should reflect on that.”
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