The United Democratic Party (UDP) leader and Secretary General, lawyer Ousainou Darboe, has urged party members to continue honoring Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensouda after he resigned as Organizing Secretary and withdrew from the party’s flagbearer competition.
Darboe said he spoke with Mayor Bensouda on Saturday morning and agreed with the mayor’s decision in an audio message sent via WhatsApp. He asked party members to refrain from insults or outrage in response.
“This morning, my son and nephew, Lord Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensouda, came to inform me of his intentions. I accept and agree with his decision. Even though it is not my preference, this should not hurt or anger anyone. It is natural to feel sad, but we must remain respectful,” Darboe said.
He underlined that Bensouda’s achievements to the party should not be overshadowed by his resignation. “He resigned from a significant position in the UDP.” He diligently served and fought for it. It is appropriate to respect his decision to resign without disparaging him. Recall his prior contributions and his diligent efforts on behalf of the party,” Darboe remarked.
Darboe also emphasized the necessity of party members exercising self-control and respect for one another.
“Politics often comes with changes, and things can shift unexpectedly. We must not overstate or overreact to this situation. The respect you hold for Talib should remain intact,” he said.
He urged party members to continue to recognize Bensouda even though he resigned from his position because he is still a member of the UDP.
He stays a member of the party even after leaving a post. We all give him the respect that comes with his position, and it needs to be maintained,” Darboe continued.
The UDP leader asked members to keep their interactions civil and cohesive as he concluded his speech.
“Let us act as one, recognizing that changes happen. We want to ensure that if we meet tomorrow, we can do so without regret,” he said.
