Talib Bensouda has been strongly cautioned to watch out for self-serving politicians in his circle if he hopes to survive in Gambian politics.

Mr. Bensouda, who rose to prominence in 2018 through the United Democratic Party (UDP) ticket, recently fell out with his former party after forming his own political movement.

Last month, he withdrew his bid to lead the UDP amid internal divisions, citing a desire to honor his promise not to challenge his political godfather, Ousainou Darboe.

However, the young politician later made a sensational move by forming a new movement, leaving many observers stunned.

He has promised to end Gambia’s decades-long cycle of poverty through his business-minded approach, a promise many consider unrealistic.

Yet, one of his former allies from the UDP, Alagie SM Jobarteh, has issued a stark warning to Talib. He told him he risks ending up like other failed Gambian politicians if he continues to associate with those he describes as political opportunists.

“This is one reason I left Talib and rejoined the UDP,” Jobarteh said. “When I attended Talib’s Sunday meeting, I saw people who would leave the UDP if they joined, yet they are the ones surrounding Talib.

“Talib should be extremely cautious of these individuals if he wants to survive and succeed in politics. These are the same people who caused Mama Kandeh, Essa Faal, and even President Barrow to fail politically,” he added.

By Adama Makasuba