Kanifing Mayor Talib Bensouda has lifted the lid on his recent re-election, insisting the United Democratic Party (UDP) barely helped him.

Speaking frankly, Bensouda revealed he and his councilors footed almost the entire bill for his campaign.

“I and my councilors financed 99% of my re-election,” he said, “and what UDP contributed was very small, just 75,000 dalasis.”

He added that he was grateful for the party’s support but wanted to set the record straight.

“I am not belittling them, and I thank them for the support they have done for me. But this is the reality,” he said.

The mayor’s candid admission highlights the true cost of local politics and raises questions about how much parties really back their candidates.

His comments are likely to stir debate among party loyalists and the public about campaign financing and political responsibility at the local level.

By Adama Makasuba