The congress serves as a significant milestone for the two parties to gather and discuss pertinent issues, unveil key policy initiatives and elect new leadership to steer the affairs of the alliance in build up to the 2026 election cycle.
At the event, Essa Mbaye Faal, the flagbearer and APP-SOBEYAA presidential candidate for the 2026 presidential election, spoke highly of their policies and programmes earmarked for the country when elected into office.
Campaigning on a slogan: ‘Turn Around’, Faal put forward some programmes designed to better the living conditions of Gambians while curbing corruption and mismanagement of public funds.
He also talked about initiatives designed to empower and create employment for the country’s teeming youthful population.
Welcoming the delegates, Yaisa Jawara, second vice president of the APP-SOBEYAA Alliance, expressed appreciation with the turnout of delegates and to be part of the gathering especially women delegates.
She also thanked the executive of APP-Sobeyaa for their efforts to position the party on right footing.
Giving a synopsis of the merger, Maila Touray, deputy national organising secretary of APP-SOBEYAA addressing delegates from his base in the United States, recalled that over the past two years, the team has accomplished an extraordinary milestone by successfully navigating the complexities of merging two distinct political structures into one unified entity.
This achievement, he said, reflects not only their exceptional dedication but also their resilience, teamwork, and commitment to a shared vision.
"Each of you has contributed to harmonising diverse ideologies, resolving challenges, and forging a stronger organisation poised to make an impactful difference in Gambian politics. From strategic negotiations and branding efforts, to operational integration and grassroots engagement, your collaborative efforts have ensured the success of this transformative process."
He noted that the passion and professionalism they’ve demonstrated throughout this journey have set a new standard of excellence in putting country first.
"This merger represents more than just a unification — it’s a symbol of what we can achieve together when guided by similar values, virtues, purpose and mutual respect. I look forward to seeing how this unified organisation built on the foundation of your efforts will thrive in the years to come."
Dr. Barra Touray speaking on behalf of Alhagie Gumbo Ali Touray, founding father and former party leader, reminded that All Peoples Party (APP) sailed through rough waters at its beginning, but expressed delight to share that even with all the remarkable challenges that come with being a young party in a competitive landscape, it has successfully weathered the storm.
"As we gather here to discuss this congress, especially regarding the new alliance between APP and SOBEYAA, it is remarkable that this partnership comes at a significant time in history."
"I am told that in your agenda, APP and SOBEYA have discussed, have found common ground to form a merger. It’s undeniably a rational decision, considering fully well that in this country’s current political trajectory, that no single party can reach the peak of its own. Unity makes you stronger in mind and as a body organisation."
He described the merger as timely as the ‘ding-dong’ echoes of 2026 are already resonating, further informing delegates that they are on the brink of a new political opportunity.
He acknowledged the fact that the political situation of the country is polarised and that they’ve waited far too long to get this country on the right footing.
"Therefore, let’s forge greater partnership with similar parties as a wise way to effect political change in our beloved country. In my opinion, a strong political force on all fronts is a leverage to effect the desired political change that we all are yearning for."
Other speakers at the congress included: Babou Jagne, former taskforce chairman APP and Ebou Gaye, Secretary General APP- who put forward a proposal of a resolution for the change of APP constitution, which was unanimously adopted at the congress.
Meanwhile the new executives of APP-SOBEYAA are: Essa Mbaye Faal, secretary general and flagbearer; administrative secretary Dr. Daffeh; Cherno Touray; deputy administrative secretary; Isatou Jawara, 1st vice president, Yaisa Jallow, 2nd vice president, Binta Touray, deputy secretary general political affairs, Ebou Gaye, deputy secretary general for operations; Momodou Lamin Sanyang, campaign manager, Professor Mballow. national organising secretary; Maila Touray, deputy national organising secretary; Ousainou Bobb, spokesperson; Mustapha Danso, deputy spokesperson; Marie Baldeh, national women mobiliser, Fatou Suwareh, deputy national women mobiliser; Omar Barrow, national youth mobiliser; Lamin Nyassi, deputy national youth mobiliser; Mariama Faal; treasurer; Mass Jobe, deputy treasurer; Kejaw Touray, auditor; Habib Faal, Diaspora coordinator Europe, Aji Sira Sarr, Diaspora coordinator UK; Musa Jallow, Diaspora coordinator US.
