Africa-Press – Gambia. Mama Kandeh, the leader and Secretary General of the Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC), has stated that his party is open to forming alliances with any political entity in the country—including the ruling National People’s Party (NPP)—provided that such a partnership aligns with the party’s principles and objectives.
Speaking in a recent interview with QTV, Kandeh emphasized that political collaboration is not off the table for the GDC.
“The GDC does not rule out forming an alliance with any party, including the ruling party,” he said. “If we find the alliance meaningful and beneficial, there’s no reason why we shouldn’t go ahead with it.”
Kandeh further revealed that he has already begun engaging with other political parties in discussions aimed at forging potential alliances. “I am reaching out to political parties to explore the possibility of working together,” he said, noting that some parties have also initiated contact with him for the same purpose.
Pressed to disclose the names of these parties, Kandeh declined, stating that the talks are still at a preliminary stage. However, he maintained that the discussions so far have been constructive.
“Just as I’m approaching others, some are also coming to me. That’s how politics works—through dialogue and engagement,” he explained. “At the end of the day, we are all Gambians. What we want is a peaceful, united, and developed nation.”
Looking ahead to the 2026 presidential election, Kandeh confirmed that the GDC is already developing a strategic work plan.
“We are preparing for 2026—planning how to engage the electorate, how to listen to their concerns, and how to convince them of our vision,” he stated.
Addressing rumors about a potential alliance with the NPP and speculations about his personal political ambitions, Kandeh dismissed claims that any position has been offered or requested.
“People say Barrow will make me vice president or foreign minister, but that’s just talk. President Barrow has never told me he’s offering me a position, and I’ve never asked him for one,” he asserted.
Kandeh also pushed back against criticism over his willingness to speak with the president, saying that political dialogue should not be vilified.
“Is it a crime to have a conversation with Barrow?” he asked rhetorically. “Many people who criticize me today were once part of his alliance. Why was it acceptable then, but a problem now?”
When asked to name individuals or parties he was referring to, he declined, instead alluding to the 2016 coalition that brought Barrow to power.
Regarding his interactions with the president, Kandeh was unequivocal. “If Barrow called me tomorrow, I would answer. And if I want to speak with him, I will reach out. I’m not afraid to stand before the Gambian people and say exactly what I intend to do.”
He made it clear that his political engagement is not driven by animosity.
“I don’t have a problem with any politician or political party in this country. I simply want to see a unified Gambia. In politics, I speak my mind—not out of hatred or malice, but because it’s necessary,” he said.
Kandeh went on to describe his long-standing relationship with President Barrow. Stating, “We come from the same region, just two kilometers apart. I have no personal issue with him; we are connected through politics,” he noted.
He concluded by affirming what he describes as the democratic nature of the GDC, stating that all key decisions are taken collectively. “There is democracy in the GDC. Since 2016, I’ve never made a unilateral decision. Everything is brought before the executive committee for discussion,” he emphasized.
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