Following extensive discussions today, the political stakeholders comprising APP Sobeyaa, GFA, Tabax Rewmi, and UDP, have agreed to revise the progression timetable. This will give them a two weeks window for informal bilateral discussions to review and resolve the remaining draft Coalition Agreement issues.
As bilateral negotiations with other political stakeholders is permissible, UDP’s recently unveiled alliance is acknowledged. Furthermore, during today’s Council meeting, UDP affirmed their commitment to the shared objective of a broad-based and inclusive coalition which is mutually beneficial to all, including their alliance associates and the general public.
The political stakeholders also agreed to reconvene on Sunday, 30 August 2026, with a view to conclude and wrap up the APeX negotiations process.
Recognising the need for a timely resolution and progress, the political stakeholders have affirmed and endeavoured to explore all reasonable consultative avenues over the next two weeks to achieve the shared objective of progressing to the next substantive phase of these negotiations which APeX initiated in January 2025.
On behalf of the parties to CHANGE 2026, we wish to place on record that the public interest in these negotiations is acknowledged and fully understood. Therefore, we appreciate the patience, understanding, and continued support of the Gambian people while the few remaining issues are being resolved.
It is worthy of note to add that, the APeX Initiative first engaged the political stakeholders in early 2025 after prior preparatory work which commenced in April 2023. Therefore, whilst acknowledging the departure of NUP who wish to chart a different path, we appreciate the hard work all, including the political stakeholders have vested in the process.
THE END
Signed: For CHANGE
Dr. Jaye Ceesay Krubally, APeX Chairperson | Mr. Demba Ali Jawo, APeX Outreach Lead
