Talib Ahmed Bensouda, the Mayor of Kanifing Municipal Council, has conveyed his optimism that he can prevail over President Adama Barrow in the 2026 presidential elections if he is chosen as the United Democratic Party (UDP) flagbearer.
After appearing before the UDP’s selection panel, Mayor Bensouda addressed journalists, stating, “If they select me, I am confident that I will win against President Adama Barrow.”
He commended the party’s leadership, highlighting the solid groundwork established by UDP leader Ousainou Darboe, which he feels continues to motivate younger members to assume leadership positions within the party.
According to Talin Bemsouda, it is widely recognized that the UDP leader, Ousainou Darboe, has established a robust party. He has cultivated a generation that is now equipped to carry forward his vision and finish the work he began.
In response to internal discussions within the party concerning his candidacy, Mayor Bensouda aimed to clear up any misconceptions about the timing of his application in relation to Darboe’s.
Mr. Bensouda said that, although there has been some discussion regarding the discrepancies between his statements and actions, he would like to clarify that at the time he submitted his application, he was informed that the party leader had not yet applied. He explained that he submitted his application at the last minute, fully aware of the implications.
He stated that Darboe’s choice to pursue the flagbearer position is his democratic right, while highlighting that his own motivation is to serve the Gambian people under the UDP banner.
“We respect that he has applied—that is his right. My focus is on the process and serving the country in the name of the party and in honor of his legacy,” Bensouda said.
