By Kemo Kanyi
The United Movement for Change (UMC) on Saturday held its first national congress and a mega political rally, bringing together supporters from across the country ahead of the 2026 presidential election.
The congress was held at Paradise Suites Hotel, while the rally took place at the Buffer Zone in Tallinding, drawing large crowds, particularly of young people, according to organisers.
At the congress, Talib Ahmed Bensouda was selected as leader of the movement. Other appointments included Yahya Menteng Sanyang as deputy leader for administration and finance, Ebrima Dibba as national president, and MC Cham Junior as campaign manager.
Addressing supporters, Bensouda said the UMC was formed to bring a new direction to Gambian politics and address what he described as rising levels of political hostility and division.
He says the movement seeks to promote national unity, transformation, and equality, while discouraging tribalism, insults, and divisive rhetoric in political discourse.
“When we were establishing UMC, Gambian politics was very harsh. Insults, tribalism, personal attacks and social division were very common. This is what we want to end by creating a movement with a difference,” he remarked.
Bensouda says the movement aims to reshape the political landscape by encouraging more issue-based engagement and constructive dialogue.
The Kanifing Municipal Council mayor also expressed confidence in his political prospects, saying the level of public support demonstrated at the rally showed strong momentum ahead of the polls.
He also alleged that his development initiatives within the municipality had faced political and institutional resistance, including attempts to obstruct road projects by the National Roads Authority (NRA).
Bensouda urges UMC supporters to intensify outreach efforts and engage voters directly to promote the movement’s agenda as the country moves closer to the 2026 elections.