Bensouda Urges Gambians to Reject Tribal, Religious, and Regional Divisions Ahead of 2026 Election

By Fatou Sillah

Talib Ahmed Bensouda, leader of the UNITE Party and flagbearer of Coalition 2026, has urged Gambians to reject attempts to divide the country along tribal, religious, regional, or generational lines as the December 2026 presidential election approaches.

Bensouda, who is also mayor of the Kanifing Municipal Council, made the remarks during an interview with West Coast Radio, where he called on political parties and their supporters to avoid rhetoric that could deepen divisions among Gambians.

“In this coming election, 2026, I appeal to all political actors and all political supporters: let us not allow anyone to divide us, either on tribe, age, religion, creed, or region. Gambia is for Gambians. What unifies us is our passport or ID card, and that is all that matters,” he said.

Bensouda said Coalition 2026 intends to campaign on an agenda focused on improving healthcare, expanding employment opportunities, and strengthening the economy.

He said the coalition would also prioritize tackling corruption and crime, reducing the cost of living, and creating greater economic opportunities for Gambians.

“This is a project that has an ambition to transform Gambia permanently and for good, tackle corruption, fight crime, reduce the cost of living, and create opportunities for all,” he said.

Addressing undecided voters and those dissatisfied with the country’s existing political choices, Bensouda urged them to give Coalition 2026 an opportunity to govern.

He said the coalition would also seek the support of Gambians currently aligned with the ruling party and other opposition parties, describing its approach as inclusive rather than partisan.

Bensouda said Coalition 2026 would promote what he described as servant leadership, with an emphasis on listening to citizens regardless of their political affiliation.

He stressed that national identity should remain the strongest bond among Gambians, arguing that political differences should not be allowed to divide the country along ethnic, religious, regional, or generational lines.