Talib Bensouda Says Political Opposition Has Strengthened His Resolve

By Fatou Sillah

Talib Ahmed Bensouda, leader of the UNITE Party and flagbearer of Coalition 2026, said efforts by his political opponents to derail his career have instead strengthened his resolve.

Speaking at a Coalition 2026 rally in Badibou Salikeni, Bensouda said he has faced sustained political opposition since 2018, which he attributed to his record at the Kanifing Municipal Council and his broader political ambitions.

“Since 2018, many people have wanted to end my political career because of the work I am doing at KMC and my intention to make The Gambia better,” Bensouda said. “They have seen that no matter how long it takes, I will one day lead the country. They have started fighting me from every angle.”

Bensouda said he initially chose to concentrate on his work rather than respond to attacks from his political opponents, but eventually decided to push back as the pressure intensified.

“The more they are fighting me, the stronger I’m getting,” he said. “I am Talib the unbreakable.”

Bensouda also said he had challenged President Adama Barrow at the Supreme Court on four occasions and prevailed in each case.

He rejected claims that he plans to join the ruling National People’s Party, saying UNITE was established to serve the country rather than pursue money or government positions.

Turning his criticism directly toward Barrow, Bensouda accused the president of seeking to remain in office despite previously criticizing former President Yahya Jammeh for overstaying in power.

“Adama Barrow, you yourself want to overstay, and you yourself are building a house that no one has ever seen in Africa,” he said.

Bensouda also expressed confidence in Coalition 2026 and UNITE ahead of the 2026 election, saying the movement intends to form the next government and urging Gambians to support what he described as an effort to move the country forward.