United Democratic Party (UDP) leader Lawyer Ousainou Darboe has cautioned party supporters against castigating Mayor Talib Bensouda following his decision to step down as National Organising Secretary and withdraw from the party’s leadership race.

In an address to members, the former vice president and foreign affairs minister acknowledged Bensouda’s contributions, revealing that the young politician personally informed him on Saturday of his decision to resign from his post and abandon his flagbearer bid.

“Today, my son, Mayor Ahmed Talib Bensouda, came to my residence to inform me personally of his decision to withdraw from his bid and step down from his position in the party,” Darboe said.

He urged party members to respect Bensouda’s decision, stressing that he should not be subjected to bullying, humiliation, or personal attacks.

“Don’t overdo things that you will regret one day. Don’t say something against Talib Bensouda that you may regret when you meet him or his relatives,” he warned.

Darboe reminded members that Bensouda remains a loyal UDP member who has long enjoyed good relations with many of those now criticising him.

By Adama Makasuba