By Makutu Manneh
Bakary Badjie, Minister of Youth and Sports, has publicly questioned the presidential aspirations of Talib Ahmed Bensouda, Mayor of the Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC), citing what he described as failed or incomplete development projects under the Council’s leadership.
Speaking during a “Meet the People” tour meeting in Bakau, Minister Badjie challenged residents to identify tangible development initiatives implemented by KMC over the past nine years. He argued that effective performance at the municipal level should ease the burden on President Adama Barrow’s administration, but claimed that the council’s contributions remain largely invisible.
According to the minister, significant infrastructure, such as markets within the municipality, was constructed during the administrations of former mayors Lie Conteh and Yankuba Colley—not under the current leadership.
“KMC today cannot point to a single market, road, or school they have built. So what exactly have they achieved?” he asked.
Minister Badjie also downplayed the council’s reported strides in waste management, arguing that many residents still rely on donkey carts for garbage disposal. He cautioned residents to scrutinize Bensouda’s leadership record as he pursues higher office.
“If someone fails to deliver on their promises at the local level but then seeks the presidency, residents of KMC should be vigilant. If they cannot manage municipal responsibilities, how can they lead a country?” he said.
The minister further cited the stalled Serekunda West mini-stadium upgrade and uncompleted road projects as examples of unfulfilled commitments. He accused Mayor Bensouda’s administration of shifting blame onto the central government rather than acknowledging its shortcomings.
Minister Badjie urged Kanifing Municipality residents to hold their council leaders to the same standards of accountability that they demand from the national government. He praised President Barrow as a hardworking and strategic leader, adding that any mayor seeking to emulate him would “struggle” due to the president’s depth of experience and capability.