Bensouda resigns as KMC mayor ahead of presidential nomination

Talib Ahmed Bensouda has resigned as Mayor of the Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC), effective Friday, 6 November 2026, as he prepares to be nominated as a candidate in the December 5, 2026 presidential election.
In a resignation notice addressed to the relevant authorities, Bensouda also announced his departure as a member of the Council, citing Section 90(1) of the Constitution of The Gambia, which governs eligibility for election to the office of President.
The outgoing mayor described his time serving the people of Kanifing as the greatest honour and privilege of his life, expressing gratitude to residents, fellow councillors, management and staff of the Council for their contributions during his tenure.
He said he was leaving behind a reformed institution and a foundation upon which further progress could be built.
Bensouda expressed confidence that the Council’s management would continue supporting the institution and that councillors would complete the remaining mandate with integrity and commitment to the people of Kanifing.
Reflecting on his administration, he acknowledged that the Council’s progress had been achieved despite what he described as political obstruction and unfair restrictions that prevented the municipality from fully realising its potential.
He said his presidential ambition would provide an opportunity to address some of these challenges, particularly those affecting local government institutions across the country.
“If elected President, I will work to remove those remaining barriers and ensure that every council has the freedom, support and fair treatment it needs to serve its communities, regardless of political affiliation,” he stated.
He further emphasised that local government should be treated as a partner in national development and receive the necessary institutional support to deliver services to communities.
Although his tenure as mayor is coming to an end, Bensouda maintained that his commitment to Kanifing and its residents would remain unchanged.
He said he would carry the lessons of public responsibility and the trust placed in him by residents into the next chapter of his public service.
His resignation comes as political activities intensify ahead of the December 5 presidential election, with presidential aspirants undertaking the required nomination processes before the Independent Electoral Commission.