Talib Ahmed Bensouda has filed his candidacy papers for Gambia’s presidential election, drawing celebrations from supporters of the UNITE-led coalition.
The filing took place on Friday, despite a government report issued the previous week that accused the UNITE leader of financial improprieties and abuse of office. The allegations have not been established as proven.
UNITE rejected the accusations, describing them as “a last-minute political manoeuvre intended to confuse the public…ahead of nominations.” The party also said President Adama Barrow’s National People’s Party government was “desperate and afraid because they will lose this election.”
Nominee list not yet official
The presidential election is scheduled for December 5, but the official list of nominees had not yet been made public.
Barrow is seeking a third term, while Ousainou Darboe has also said he will run. Darboe previously contested against Barrow in 2021.
Bensouda is a former mayor of Kanifing Municipality, where he served for eight years. He gained a loyal following during that period after implementing regular waste collection, according to the available account of his political rise.
Political pressure
The filing comes as Gambia faces prolonged electricity cuts that have prompted protests and calls for Barrow to step down.
The allegations against Bensouda have added uncertainty to the nomination process. If they are proven, he would be disqualified from standing, although the available information does not specify the legal process or the government body responsible for determining his eligibility.
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