Gambia opposition leader files for election despite abuse claims
Talib Ahmed Bensouda submitted candidacy papers for the December 5 presidential election despite a government report alleging impropriety.
Gambia's opposition leader Talib Ahmed Bensouda filed his candidacy papers on Friday for the December 5 presidential election. Bensouda, leader of the UNITE-led coalition, submitted his papers despite a government report last week alleging financial improprieties and abuse of office during his eight years as mayor of Kanifing Municipality.
Bensouda's UNITE party dismissed the allegations as a political manoeuvre by the ruling National People's Party (NPP) government. Supporters celebrated Bensouda's move, highlighting his popularity gained through regular waste collection and his rising political profile amidst the nation's prolonged electricity cuts.
The presidential election will see President Adama Barrow running for a third term. Leading opposition candidate Ousainou Darboe of the United Democratic Party has also declared his intention to run. Bensouda would be disqualified from standing if the allegations against him are proven.