Kanifing mayor Talib Bensouda has staged his first mini townhall meeting since dramatically withdrawing from the United Democratic Party’s flagbearer contest, a move that has fuelled speculation of a 2026 presidential bid.

Bensouda, long tipped as a future national leader, faced a storm of criticism within the UDP after announcing his ambition to lead the party.

Critics accused him of plotting to unseat veteran party boss Lawyer Ousainou Darboe, prompting a tense internal showdown.

In a video obtained by Gambiana, the youthful mayor is seen addressing a small gathering in the West Coast Region, the political stronghold of staunch UDP supporter Yankuba Darboe, who had threatened to quit the party if Bensouda were selected as the 2026 candidate.

Speaking at the meeting, party firebrand Momodou Cham, widely known as MC Cham Jnr, declared: “We have a programme and our programme is how to salvage this country. Because this country needs a young visionary leader who will unite and develop it.

“We are not into politics of insults and attacks, and anyone who insults or criticises, we won’t respond. Our mission is not about fighting the opposition, but about making sure this young man becomes president.”

The appearance marks Bensouda’s first public step since stepping aside in the UDP leadership race, signalling what many believe could be the start of his own presidential push.

By Adama Makasuba