Kanifing Municipal Council Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensouda has called on President Adama Barrow to publicly address the reported demolition of part of a Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) military camp fence in Bulock, Foni, allegedly by Senegalese soldiers.

In a message addressed to Gambians, Bensouda said he was concerned by reports that Senegalese forces entered the area with bulldozers and demolished portions of the military camp.

He questioned the absence of a public statement from President Barrow, who is also Commander-in-Chief of the Gambia Armed Forces, saying Gambians needed reassurance over the protection of the country’s sovereignty.

“More concerning is that the president of the nation and the commander-in-chief of the armed forces has not come out to assure Gambians or to condemn these acts,” Bensouda said.

The mayor stressed that while The Gambia and Senegal share close historical and cultural ties, national sovereignty must be protected.

“The Gambia is a sovereign nation. We have dear neighbours, which is the Senegalese people, and we love them and we will grow with them and we will support them,” he said.

“However, acts like these question our comrades, acts like these question our partnership, and I think it is very important that President Barrow draws a red line.”

Bensouda said the incident highlights broader concerns about national independence and security, arguing that countries must maintain control over critical sectors.

“But this is what happens when you outsource your security, outsource your energy. Nations don’t take you seriously,” he said.

He urged President Barrow to take decisive action and assure citizens that the country’s territorial integrity remains protected.

“I ask President Barrow to come out and condemn these acts. Come out and assure the Gambian people that our sovereignty is protected,” he added.

The mayor also linked the issue to the upcoming December 2026 presidential election, describing it as a major test for Gambian voters.

“2026 December will be a serious election. It is an election that will test the Gambian people,” he said.

Bensouda said the election would determine whether Gambians want leadership that responds firmly to national security concerns, calling for stronger focus on energy security, food security and border security.

His comments come after the Gambian government confirmed that a section of the perimeter fence at the Bulock Military Border Post was demolished, allegedly involving members of the Senegalese Armed Forces.

The government said the matter was being addressed through diplomatic channels and the Joint Military Committee.

By Adama Makasuba