Talib Ahmed Bensouda, mayor of Kanifing and leader of the United Movement for Change, has said his party’s upcoming national congress could mark a major shift in Gambian politics.
Speaking at a meeting in Sabach Sanjal, he described the May 16 gathering as a “political earthquake” that would signal the emergence of a strong new political force.
“I am promising you that before September 2026, UMC will be the biggest political party in The Gambia. We want the country to be shaken by our national congress,” he said.
Mr Bensouda also said he intends to build on his 2023 mayoral election victory in the presidential election scheduled for December 5.
His comments come despite warnings from the Independent Electoral Commission that unregistered political groups could face legal action if they organise congresses.
Mr Bensouda said the movement would go ahead with its plans, pointing to what he described as rapid organisational growth.
“A movement that is only six months old now has bureaus in every region. All our chairpersons have motorbikes, and regional chairpersons have vehicles,” he said.
He urged supporters to intensify their efforts, adding that both the ruling party and opposition groups were closely monitoring the movement.
Mr Bensouda said the UMC aims to address national challenges, particularly those affecting young people and women.
There has been no immediate response from the government or other political parties.
