The political future of Talib Ahmed Bensouda, a prominent and youthful figure in Gambian politics and Mayor of the Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC), has come under scrutiny following his withdrawal from the United Democratic Party’s (UDP) flagbearer contest and his resignation as National Organising Secretary.
The moves have triggered a series of events, including the resignations of other senior party members.
Speaking on West Coast Radio’s Coffee Time with Peter Gomez, UDP spokesperson Almamy Fanding Tall described the situation as difficult, citing both Bensouda’s personal loss and the political turmoil. “I think we all owe him a duty of respect and consideration during this difficult time,” Tall said.
Bensouda had submitted his application for the flagbearer position on September 1, six days after UDP leader Ousainou Darboe applied on August 26. While Tall noted that Bensouda may never “compete with his political father,” his decision to withdraw has had a ripple effect within the party.
Following Bensouda’s withdrawal, several high-ranking party members, including campaign manager Karafa Sonko and Tombong Saidy, resigned from their executive positions, citing his actions as a reason. Some observers have interpreted these departures as a sign of Bensouda’s influence and the potential for a new political faction to emerge.
Tall, however, downplayed such concerns, pointing to historical precedent. He recalled the late Lamin Waa Juwara, a former UDP leader who resigned, formed his own party, and later joined former president Yahya Jammeh’s administration. Tall said such examples highlight the challenges new parties face with internal disagreements and a divided electorate.
Despite the turbulence, UDP leadership is keen to retain Bensouda. “The party, you know, really would want to keep him in the party through 2026,” Tall said, calling Bensouda a “political phenomenon” whose “electability and appeal” are widely recognised.
Tall also noted Bensouda’s ability to attract support beyond party lines, quoting a common sentiment: “I’m not UDP, but I support Talib Bensouda.” He added that while Bensouda’s rise has been closely tied to the UDP, his future in Gambian politics remains bright, regardless of his decision. “Some of us would urge him to stay within the fold of the UDP. He has a very, very, very bright future in Gambian politics one way or the other,” he said.
Addressing the criticism that followed Bensouda’s actions, Tall defended his record as mayor. He praised Bensouda’s leadership of the Kanifing Municipal Council over two terms and said that any administrative missteps do not justify the level of criticism he has received.
As Gambians watch closely, the coming months will be crucial in determining whether Bensouda remains with the UDP, forms a new party, or takes a different political path. His next moves are expected to have significant implications for both his career and the party ahead of the 2026 elections.
