Bensouda Warns IEC Against Political Interference, Accuses Barrow of Trying to Block His Candidacy

By Fatou Sillah

Talib Ahmed Bensouda, leader of the UNITE Party and presidential candidate of Coalition 2026, has called on the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) to safeguard its independence and resist political interference ahead of The Gambia’s December 5 presidential election.

Speaking at a Coalition 2026 rally in Brufut, Mr. Bensouda directly addressed IEC Chairman Joseph Colley, urging him to uphold the commission’s constitutional responsibilities and protect public confidence in the electoral process.

“IEC Joe Colley, you should be independent. People have respect for you, so don’t compromise your independence. Do your work and let no one influence you,” he said.

Mr. Bensouda also questioned the conduct of Attorney General and Minister of Justice Dawda Jallow, accusing him of attempting to influence the electoral process through his engagement with the IEC and remarks concerning the possibility of election-related violence.

He argued that the Attorney General, as the government’s chief legal adviser, has a responsibility to uphold the rule of law and protect democratic institutions rather than engage in actions that could undermine public confidence in their independence.

The Coalition 2026 candidate further alleged that discussions concerning his coalition were taking place at both State House and the IEC, claiming that information about those discussions was reaching his political camp.

Mr. Bensouda did not provide specific details or evidence to substantiate the allegations.

He also accused President Adama Barrow of attempting to prevent him from contesting the presidential election, claiming that the president viewed his candidacy as a serious electoral threat.

According to Mr. Bensouda, the alleged efforts to obstruct his participation reflected concerns within the ruling establishment about the possibility of losing the election.

The allegations against the president, the Attorney General and the electoral commission were not independently verified.

Despite his criticism, Mr. Bensouda urged political leaders and their supporters to maintain peace throughout the electoral period and refrain from actions or rhetoric that could provoke violence.

He emphasized the importance of a peaceful, transparent and credible electoral process in preserving the country’s democratic stability.

The Coalition 2026 flagbearer maintained that his alliance remained politically strong and expressed confidence that it would secure victory in the December 5 presidential election.