Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensouda of the Unite Movement for Change has condemned a regional governor’s move to seize the official stamp of the Nyangen village head, describing the action as “immoral, unethical, and illegal,” and cautioning that it could set a dangerous precedent.
Commenting on the issue, Bensouda said it is both common and culturally accepted in The Gambia for an Alkalo’s son to be involved in local administration. According to him, village leadership often follows a hereditary path, with sons gradually learning the responsibilities tied to the role.
“It is important to prepare your son so he understands how the office functions,” he said, noting that many Alkalolu routinely entrust certain duties to their sons.
He called for the stamp to be returned without delay and questioned reports suggesting the governor defended the decision on the grounds that the Alkalo’s son is affiliated with the opposition U.M.C.
“If there is credible evidence, it should be handled through proper procedures,” Bensouda stated. “But taking such drastic action and confiscating the Alkalo’s stamp is not the right approach.”
Reflecting on his time overseeing the Kanifing Municipal Council in 2021, he pointed out that while there were suspicions that some village heads supported the ruling National People’s Party, his administration chose not to punish them or interfere with official tools of office.
He urged the governor to reconsider the decision, placing the matter within the context of the country’s democratic progress.
“We have struggled against dictatorship in this country,” he said. “It’s worth remembering that the president you serve today was once part of the opposition in 2016, so being in opposition does not make anyone an enemy.”
Bensouda also stressed that the country should remain focused on more pressing national concerns, including corruption, poverty, illiteracy, and governance challenges.
“At the end of the day, we are all Gambians, even if we hold different views,” he added.
