Talib Ahmed Bensouda Rejects Claim White Paper Could Derail His Presidential Bid

Talib Ahmed Bensouda says he sees no legal obstacle to his presidential candidacy, despite questions raised over the government’s White Paper on the findings of the Local Government Commission of Inquiry. Speaking to journalists after submitting his nomination papers, he insisted that the document did not provide grounds to disqualify him. The Independent Electoral Commission’s chairperson, Joseph Colley, received the papers and said they would undergo due diligence before a final decision was made. The IEC reported receiving 16 required documents, including proof of citizenship and voter registration, nomination forms, educational credentials, an asset declaration, tax clearance, a party sponsorship letter, a manifesto and campaign itinerary. The file also included evidence of the required one-million-dalasi deposit. Bensouda submitted a resignation letter from the Kanifing Municipal Council, saying he had stepped down to comply with constitutional requirements for presidential candidates. The commission said it would verify the signatures and contact details of his nominated supporters. Colley added that any minor deficiencies would be raised with the candidate so they could be corrected during the nomination period. Bensouda called submitting his candidacy a proud moment and expressed hope that the election would be peaceful and progressive. He also pledged to tackle poverty and improve conditions for Gambians experiencing hardship. He described himself as ready to lead an effort to move people from hardship toward prosperity. On governance, he proposed separating the Attorney General’s office from the Ministry of Justice. In his view, the Attorney General should not be a political appointee and should oversee the implementation of justice independently. Bensouda said the United Party Coalition’s manifesto contains 66 priority actions, which he described as achievable and intended to transform the country. The IEC, meanwhile, has said its review is ongoing and that it will communicate its decision after completing the checks.