Mayor Ahmed Talib Bensouda, the organising secretary of the United Democratic Party (UDP), has condemned the recent leadership dispute within the party.

Tensions have risen after some members called for Mr Bensouda to be the UDP’s candidate to challenge President Adama Barrow in the 2026 presidential election.

However, others insist that lawyer Ousainou Darboe remains the party’s preferred candidate, leading to accusations of a plot against Mr Darboe from within the party ranks.

Speaking in response to the dispute, Mayor Bensouda called for unity, urging party members to focus on removing the Barrow government from power.

“The discussion should be about how to remove President Adama Barrow in the 2026 presidential election,” he said. “I am disappointed and hurt because this question is about tribe.”

“I hate tribal politics,” he added. “I am speaking to all UDP members, whether pro-Talib or pro-Ousainou Darboe supporters, we are all one family.”

He encouraged members to prioritise party unity and policy, saying: “Let’s focus on advancing our party and winning the 2026 election.”

Mayor Bensouda also warned against tribalism, saying it had caused division in the country.

“The Gambia is very small and we are all one family. We should not allow anything to divide us,” he said.

He urged party members to end divisive discussions.

By Adama Makasuba