Bensouda Defends Record as KMC Mayor, Cites Markets, Sports Facilities, and Waste Management Reforms

By Fatou Sillah

Talib Ahmed Bensouda, Mayor of the Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC) and presidential candidate of Coalition 2026, has defended his record in office, pointing to investments in public infrastructure, sports facilities and waste management as evidence of his administration’s achievements.

Addressing supporters at a Coalition 2026 rally in Bakoteh, Bensouda said his administration had constructed five markets, seven football parks, and a municipal library, while introducing waste management initiatives aimed at improving sanitation and environmental conditions across the municipality.

“During my time as Mayor of Kanifing Municipal Council, we have constructed five markets. The only municipal council library in the history of The Gambia was built during my time as KMC Mayor,” he said.

Bensouda also highlighted the Mbalit waste management initiative, which he said had become a model for other local councils across the country.

He cited improvements at the Bakoteh dumpsite, which had previously been plagued by frequent fires, as well as the introduction of tire recycling and a composting project at the Bakau Women’s Garden, where organic waste is converted into fertilizer.

His remarks came in response to criticism from Youth and Sports Minister Bakary Y. Badjie, who had questioned his achievements as mayor.

Bensouda dismissed the criticism, reminding Badjie that he had defeated him in both the 2018 and 2023 mayoral elections.

Turning his attention to President Adama Barrow, Bensouda expressed confidence that the incumbent would suffer a similar electoral defeat in the December 2026 presidential election.

He also outlined his coalition’s economic priorities, pledging to review government contracts that he said had disadvantaged Gambian businesses. He said a Coalition 2026 administration would terminate such agreements where necessary to create greater opportunities for local entrepreneurs.

Bensouda urged residents of Kanifing Municipality to reject the incumbent government at the polls, arguing that the country needed a change in leadership.

He emphasized that Coalition 2026 was not his personal political project but a movement belonging to the Gambian people, who would ultimately determine its future through the ballot box.