Kanifing Mayor and UNITE leader Talib Ahmed Bensouda has been selected as the presidential flagbearer of Coalition 2026 ahead of The Gambia’s December 2026 presidential election.

His selection comes after a divisive coalition process that saw the United Democratic Party (UDP) and Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC) withdraw before the vote. 

Faal also pulled out of the process shortly before balloting, citing concerns over the process and making allegations against the UNITE movement.

In his acceptance speech, Bensouda described the nomination as a responsibility rather than a political prize and called on the remaining coalition partners to unite behind the alliance.

“Today there is a result. But there must be no losers. Because the cause that brought all four of us here is greater than any one of us,” he said.

Bensouda said he would seek the advice and support of the other contenders and called for the coalition to move forward as a united campaign.

He also invited parties and movements that withdrew from the negotiations to reconsider their positions.

“Our door remains open. Come home. Let us continue the conversation,” he said.

Bensouda pledged to uphold the Coalition 2026 agreement and said the alliance would focus on constitutional and institutional reforms, tackling corruption, rebuilding public trust and promoting national reconciliation.

He also promised that, if elected president, he would declare his assets, fight corruption and remain accountable to the Gambian people.

With the flagbearer selection concluded, Bensouda said Coalition 2026 would now turn its attention to the presidential campaign, with plans to seek support across the country and among Gambians in the diaspora.

He said the coalition would also engage voters who do not currently support the alliance and those who remain undecided ahead of the December election.