By Kebba Jeffang
Almost two weeks now following the publication of the demand by some young people for all the opposition parties in The 
Gambia to unite under a coalition to remove the ruling APRC government from power in the 1st December 2016 presidential election, some political parties have already stated their position by presenting proposals on the issue while others have not yet responded or promised to do so in due course.
So far, three leaders have made the positions of their parties on the issue known to the public and these are Halifa Sallah, Secreatry General and Presidential Candidate of the People’s Democratic Organisation for Independence and Socialism (PDOIS), Dr. Lamin Bojang, leader of National Convention Party (NCP) and Hendry Gomez, the leader of Gambia People Democratic Party (GPDP) while Hamat Bah, the leader and flag bearer of the National Reconciliation Party (NRP) has promised to present their proposal to the existing grouping of opposition parties called Gambia Opposition For Electoral Reform (GOFER).
The parties that are yet to respond include the United Democratic Party (UDP), People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Gambia Moral Congress (GMC) and the Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC)
The deputy Secretary General of the United Democratic Party (UDP), Aji Mariam Secka, on Monday, 22 August, told this reporter that she is very busy at the moment. She, however, promised to fix an appointment for an interview at any time she is free to do so.
Omar Jallow, the party leader of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) is presently out of the country. Fabakary Jarjue, an executive member of the party, has volunteered to facilitate the process for this reporter to have a direct contact with Mr. Jallow today, Thursday.
As for the Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC), Mr. Momodou Jallow, the party’s spokesperson, has agreed to grant this reporter an interview at midday today.
The leader of the Gambia Moral Congress (GMC), Mai Fatty, was written to via email for his response on this issue of a coalition being demanded by these concerned young people since last week. However, he is yet to respond to the email.
Foroyaa will continue to make efforts to ensure that all the opposition parties are given the opportunity to make their positions clear or present their proposals regarding the formation of a coalition or united opposition front in this forthcoming presidential poll.
