Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – Former Niamina East National Assembly Member Omar Ceesay has officially joined the Unite Party, just four days after resigning from the Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC) in protest over the party’s alliance with President Adama Barrow’s National People’s Party (NPP).
In a statement posted on Thursday evening, Ceesay announced that he and his political team had unanimously decided to join the opposition party led by Talib Ahmed Bensouda.
“I come in peace with the purpose of sharing my stance on my next political move,” Ceesay wrote. “After a careful reflection, consultation, and consideration with my team, we have unanimously decided, with full conviction, to join the Unite Party under the leadership of Talib Ahmed Bensouda.”
He said the decision was made “with the best interest of the general good” and promised to provide further details on the reasons behind his move at a later date.
Swift Move After GDC Exit
Ceesay’s announcement comes only four days after he tendered his resignation from the GDC, ending his association with the party he had represented as National Assembly Member for Niamina East.
In his resignation letter dated August 2 and addressed to the party’s Senior Administrative Secretary, Ceesay said his departure followed “careful reflection” and was primarily driven by the GDC’s decision to align with the ruling NPP ahead of the 2026 presidential election.
He expressed gratitude to the party for the opportunity to serve but said he could no longer support its political direction.
“Recent developments, particularly the party’s decision to align with President Adama Barrow and the National People’s Party (NPP), have compelled me to reflect deeply on my personal convictions and political principles,” he wrote.
Third-Term Opposition
Central to Ceesay’s resignation was his opposition to a potential third presidential term for President Barrow.
“It is my firm belief that no President should serve for more than two terms,” he stated, adding that the position was rooted in his commitment to democratic values, good governance, and leadership renewal.
He concluded that remaining in the GDC under its new political alignment would conflict with his principles, making his resignation “both honest and appropriate.”
Political Realignment
Ceesay’s move adds to the political realignments unfolding ahead of The Gambia’s December 2026 presidential election.
His resignation came shortly after the GDC entered into a cooperation agreement with the NPP, a move that has triggered mixed reactions within the party and prompted some members to reconsider their political future.
Ceesay now becomes one of the most prominent former GDC figures to align with Talib Ahmed Bensouda’s party, strengthening its ranks as opposition parties position themselves for the upcoming presidential contest.
Ceesay has indicated that a more detailed explanation of his decision to join the Unite Party will be made public in the coming days.
Leave a Reply