By Seedy Jobe
The leader of the Unite Movement for Change (UMC) and Mayor of the Kanifing Municipal Council, Talib Ahmed Bensouda, has said his party remains open to coalition arrangements ahead of the 2026 presidential election but is prepared to contest independently if necessary.
Speaking at the UMC Women’s National Congress in Farafenni on Saturday, Bensouda disclosed that the party recently hosted discussions with other political actors as part of ongoing coalition efforts. He stressed, however, that UMC’s participation in any alliance would be guided by principles and a shared vision for national development rather than political expediency.
“We were in coalition talks, and UMC was the host. We had very important discussions,” Bensouda told delegates. “We are not selfish. We accommodate everyone, and we will not refuse to work with good people to change this country.”
The UMC leader said the party remains committed to building partnerships with individuals and groups that share its development agenda, but emphasized that it is not dependent on coalition arrangements to compete in the election.
“We want to work with people, but we are not afraid to go alone,” he said. “We can only work with those who share the same vision and beliefs because we are not here simply to win elections; we are here to develop the country.”
Bensouda also outlined his vision for national development, arguing that The Gambia should pursue long-term transformation rather than focus on what he described as symbolic projects. He cited Singapore as an example of the level of development UMC aspires to achieve.
“We do not want a Gambia where small projects are constantly being inaugurated or foundation stones are laid every day,” he said. “We want a Gambia that becomes a developed nation like Singapore.”
Turning to security, Bensouda expressed concern about what he described as a growing sense of insecurity across the country. He recounted recent experiences travelling at night and questioned the visibility of law enforcement in public spaces.
“The Gambia no longer feels secure,” he said, arguing that the primary responsibility of any government is to guarantee the safety of its citizens.
He further maintained that public support at political rallies should not be mistaken for effective governance.
“Having a government is not about holding rallies and having people clap for you,” he said. “The first responsibility of government is to ensure security. Killings are increasing, theft is increasing, and these concerns are particularly serious in border communities.”
Bensouda pledged that improving public safety and strengthening law enforcement would be at the forefront of a UMC administration if elected to office.
“If UMC comes to power, security will be the number one priority in this country,” he said.
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