Mayor Bensouda Urges Opposition to Address Cement Shortage Amid Broader Economic Strains
By Fatou Sillah
Talib Ahmed Bensouda, Mayor of the Kanifing Municipal Council and National Organizing Secretary of the United Democratic Party (UDP), has called on the country’s opposition parties to prioritize pressing national issues, particularly the acute shortage of cement that is crippling the construction sector and burdening Gambian households.
In a video message posted on his Facebook page, Mr. Bensouda described the cement shortage as a growing national crisis, with prices soaring to 500 dalasis per bag and supplies becoming increasingly scarce.
“Right now things are very difficult for Gambians across the board,” he said. “Cement is 500 dalasis and is not even available; big cement shortage. This is what the opposition should talk about, whether it is the UDP, GDC, or all parties. How did this happen? How do we allow a whole country like the Gambia to have a cement shortage?” he asked.
Mr. Bensouda’s remarks come amid broader concerns over the rising cost of living in The Gambia. He highlighted that the escalating prices of essential commodities and the lack of employment opportunities are pushing young Gambians to seek dangerous migration routes abroad.
“Cost of living, everyday a bag of rice, bags of basic commodities is getting difficult and more difficult, especially for the poor people. This is what we have to discuss. Lack of jobs for youth, back-way crisis, our youths are leaving; this is what we should discuss, and UDP should be in the lead as the leading opposition party,” he said.
Turning to internal party matters, Mr. Bensouda urged unity within the UDP, dismissing claims of deep-seated divisions but cautioning against factionalism. He specifically called on his own supporters to refrain from creating unnecessary camps or loyalties based on individual leaders.
“I want all UDP children, regardless of where you are from, from Kartong to Koina, to be united and be one family,” he said. “We work together to make sure that our party policies are being sold to Gambians because right now what we want in UDP is we want to grow the party; we want to make sure people are excited, people are happy and hopeful to come and join the party, but that is not possible if we are divided,” he said.
While he acknowledged the normal dynamics of political competition, Mr. Bensouda appealed directly to his supporters: “I am not saying the party is divided, I am saying that, those who are advocating division please stop it, whether you are Pro Talib, especially Pro Talib fans please stop, let us do things that will make people come together. I love you all; I love all UDP supporters and all Gambians,” he said.
He concluded with a rallying call for a unified effort to secure a UDP-led government in the 2026 national elections. Saying, “Let’s unite and woke together, and make sure in 2026 we put in a UDP government, there will be a place for everybody. I, Talib Bensouda have no problem with anybody; I absolutely have no problem with anybody. I am a politician; some people will like me and others will not like me, that is normal but what I want is for the development and advancement of The Gambia.”