Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensouda has accepted his selection as Coalition 2026’s presidential flagbearer, promising to unite the alliance, confront corruption and run an inclusive, peaceful campaign.
In his acceptance speech, the Kanifing Municipal Council mayor and UNITE leader framed the nomination as an obligation rather than a personal triumph.
“I do not accept this as a prize. I accept it as a duty,” Bensouda said, describing himself as accountable to both the coalition and the Gambian people.
He emerged from a selection process involving Essa Mbye Faal, Essa Bokar Sey and Professor Sidat Yaffa. Appealing for unity, Bensouda insisted the result should create no losers because the coalition’s national mission was greater than individual ambition. He promised to draw on the advice, experience and support of his former rivals while building “one coalition” and “one campaign.”
Bensouda also invited parties and movements that withdrew during negotiations to return. Acknowledging months of mistrust, disagreement and difficult talks since April 18, he said every member would receive equal treatment. Dialogue and reconciliation, he added, must prevent political differences from hardening into lasting national divisions.
Pledging fidelity to the coalition’s agreement, Bensouda backed constitutional, legal and institutional reforms, stronger public trust and firm action against corruption. If elected, he said he would declare his assets, remain accountable and respect the coalition’s collective leadership.
The candidate said the alliance would campaign across every region, reaching young people, women, farmers, fishermen, traders, workers, entrepreneurs, civil servants and Gambians abroad. It would also engage undecided voters and those who currently support other parties.
Bensouda urged supporters to reject arrogance, insults, hatred and violence. He also ruled out political revenge under a coalition government, stressing that electoral success was only a beginning.
“Winning an election is not the final objective,” he said. “Building a better Gambia is.”
