Gambiaj.com – (KANIFING, The Gambia) – Amid growing tensions and divisive rhetoric surrounding the United Democratic Party’s (UDP) internal debate on its 2026 presidential flagbearer, Kanifing Mayor and UDP Organizing Secretary Talib Ahmed Bensouda has issued a passionate appeal for party unity and a complete rejection of tribal politics.

Reacting to what he described as disturbing online discourse among UDP supporters, Bensouda said he felt compelled to speak publicly due to the “hot” and deeply concerning tribal undertones tainting internal discussions.

“I really dislike, I can say I even hate, tribal politics or tribal talk,” Bensouda said in a video address. “We are all one family… Gambia is very, very tiny. Everybody is related.”

In a message aimed at both pro-Talib and pro-Darboe factions within the party, Bensouda urged supporters to move past ethnic divisions and focus instead on the core mission of the UDP: winning the 2026 presidential election and forming a government to address the country’s pressing issues.

The mayor revealed that he met with UDP leader Ousainou Darboe just a day before to discuss the party’s organizational agenda, including major upcoming events like the Women’s Wing Rally scheduled for June 28 in Yundum, led by Aja Sukai Manka and Bintou Touray. He also mentioned an event planned for June 21 in Kuntaur.

However, Bensouda acknowledged that amid these preparations, internal online squabbles – particularly those centered on ethnic identity – were escalating.

“This conversation about tribe must stop,” he said emphatically. “Support someone for their vision, their record, and their character, but never for their tribe.”

Bensouda used his own mixed heritage – including Mandinka, Fula, and Serer roots – to illustrate the interconnectedness of Gambians, arguing that tribal divisions are artificial and harmful. “Gambia doesn’t have a ‘batte’ (war); we are one people,” he added.

He also criticized the national leadership under President Adama Barrow for its failure to address critical socioeconomic problems, such as a nationwide cement shortage, surging prices of basic commodities, and high youth unemployment driving mass migration.

“These are the issues we should be talking about,” Bensouda insisted. “Not who is Mandinka or Fula.”

Calling on all factions to cease the internal bickering and instead choose the “Kankiling,” Bensoudaa emphasized the importance of projecting unity to grow the party and win public trust. He appealed directly to his supporters: “Especially pro-Talib supporters, let’s do things that bring people together.”

The mayor concluded his remarks with a renewed pledge of loyalty to UDP leader Ousainou Darboe, expressing sympathy for the elder statesman’s efforts to navigate the party through turbulent times. “I feel so sorry for you sometimes,” Bensouda admitted, recalling his personal exchange with Darboe. “It’s unfair to you.”

He urged all UDP members and Gambians at large to work toward a common vision: “The development and advancement of The Gambia.”

As the UDP prepares for its Women’s Wing Rally and ramps up political mobilization ahead of 2026, Bensouda’s call for unity may prove pivotal in steering the party away from potentially damaging infighting.