The National Unity Party leader and Secretary General, Lawyer Lamin J. Darboe, has strongly condemned what he described as hate speech and ethic directed at UNITE Party’s leader, Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensouda by Imam Daaru Sanyang.
“I condemn these statements in the strongest and most unequivocal terms. They are reckless, and represent a direct assault on the foundation of our democracy, on our peaceful coexistence, and on the inherent dignity of every citizen of the Republic,” Darboe stated on Friday.
Imam Sanyang, during his recent sermon, called on Bensouda to join the army and lead a coup to become president if he wants to be one, adding that Gambians will not vote for a “Narr”.
The remark has sparked public outrage, with people from different works of life condemning it.
In his solidarity statement on the matter, Lamin J. Darboe expressed his support for the Mayor, describing the remarks as reckless and a direct threat to The Gambia’s democratic values, peaceful coexistence and the dignity of its citizens.
“To my brother, Lord Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensouda; please receive my absolute and unwavering solidarity. You stand not alone in these difficult times. Your stewardship in the Kanifing Municipal Council and your commitment to public service represent the very aspirations of a new generation of Gambian leadership, not an excuse for persecution,” Darboe added.
The NUP leader said Bensouda should be allowed to pursue public service without intimidation, persecution or fear, citing his leadership at the Kanifing Municipal Council and his commitment to public service.
The remark came at a time when Gambians are months away from the country’s 2026 Presidential Election, where Talib Bensouda is expected to lead a coalition against the incumbent President Adama Barrow.