The United National Independent Transformation and Empowerment (UNITE) has strongly condemned recent remarks by Imam Darou Sanyang questioning the nationality of its Party Leader, Talib Ahmed Bensouda.

The party described the comments as dangerous, unfounded and unbecoming of a religious leader, warning that tribal rhetoric can fuel division, hatred and threaten The Gambia’s social cohesion.

UNITE said it is particularly concerned that, at a time when the country is facing serious challenges, voices with the potential to promote peace and unity are instead being used to deepen ethnic divisions.

According to the party, Talib Ahmed Bensouda is Gambian, born and raised in The Gambia to parents who were also born and raised in the country. It noted that he has twice been elected Mayor of the Kanifing Municipal Council and has represented The Gambia through his leadership both nationally and internationally.

The party also pointed to Bensouda’s family background, noting that his grandfather was Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, The Gambia’s first President.

UNITE argued that describing Bensouda as a “foreigner” because of his surname or family ties is false and sets a dangerous standard that could cast doubt on the Gambian identity of many citizens with similar family backgrounds.

“Bigotry does not become acceptable because the target is a political opponent,” the party said.

UNITE further reaffirmed Bensouda’s pledge to make tribalism a prosecutable criminal offence if elected president, arguing that statements that promote division and hatred should have consequences.

The party called on Imam Darou Sanyang to withdraw his remarks and urged political and religious leaders to focus on policy, leadership and vision rather than ancestry or questions of citizenship.

“Our diversity is our strength. We are one nation and, by the will of God, we will remain one nation and one people,” UNITE said.