Talib Ahmed Bensouda, the mayor of Kanifing Municipal Council and presidential candidate of Coalition 2026, has expressed concerns that President Adama Barrow's ongoing Meet the People Tour has deviated from its intended purpose. Instead of focusing on the needs of rural communities, Bensouda alleges that the tour has become a platform for attacking opposition figures. He made these remarks at a Coalition 2026 rally in Medina Sering Mass.
Bensouda questioned the allocation of public funds for the tour, stating that approximately three million dalasis are spent daily, totaling D70 million for the 19-day exercise. He argued that this amount could be better utilized to address development needs in underserved communities like Medina Sering Mass. The criticism comes amid growing political activity ahead of the December presidential election.
The Coalition 2026 candidate emphasized that the tour should prioritize listening to farmers and rural residents, addressing the challenges they face. He urged President Barrow to take decisive action against government ministers whose public statements could fuel tribal divisions. Bensouda stressed the president's responsibility to protect national unity and prevent members of his administration from promoting ethnic divisions.
Bensouda condemned tribalism as an obstacle to national development and encouraged political leaders to promote unity. He also addressed claims about his origin, stating that both his parents were born in The Gambia, contrary to rumors suggesting Lebanese origin. This clarification reflects the increasing scrutiny of candidates' backgrounds in the lead-up to the election.
The ongoing Meet the People Tour was officially intended to facilitate dialogue between President Barrow and rural communities. However, Bensouda's comments highlight concerns among opposition figures about the government's spending priorities and approach to governance. As the election approaches, such criticisms are likely to intensify, with candidates focusing on their policies and the government's performance.
Bensouda's criticism of the tour and the government's spending priorities reflects broader concerns about governance and development in The Gambia. With the election nearing, candidates are likely to face increasing scrutiny over their own policies and records. The government's response to Bensouda's allegations and the effectiveness of the Meet the People Tour in addressing rural concerns will be closely watched.
The December presidential election will be a significant test of The Gambia's democratic processes. With candidates like Bensouda and President Barrow vying for office, voters will be evaluating their policies, leadership styles, and visions for the country's future. The outcome will have implications for The Gambia's development trajectory and its efforts to consolidate democratic gains.
Key points
- Bensouda accuses President Barrow's tour of targeting opponents rather than addressing rural concerns.
- The tour's allocation of D70 million has been questioned by Bensouda.
- Bensouda urges President Barrow to address tribal divisions and promote national unity.
