Africazine:
Gambia’s mayor calls for a focus on leadership qualities over age in presidential candidates.
Talib Ahmed Bensouda, the mayor of the Kanifing Municipal Council, emphasized that character, competence, and experience should be the criteria for presidential hopefuls, rather than age. He argued that The Gambia’s youth demographic, comprising 60 to 70 percent of the population, is ready to support capable leaders regardless of their age.
Bensouda Advocates for Competence Over Age
During an interview on Coffee Time With Peter Gomez, Bensouda dismissed age as a significant factor in determining presidential readiness. He pointed out that previous leaders like Sir Dawda Jawara and Yahya Jammeh were relatively young when they took office. Bensouda questioned the common understanding of “young,” suggesting it often refers to individuals in their 40s or 50s.
He stated that the focus should be on a candidate’s character and capacity to govern. Bensouda, who is 40 and has served as mayor for ten years, believes his experience positions him well for national leadership.
Understanding Gambia’s Youth Demographics
Bensouda highlighted the importance of reflecting the demographics of The Gambia in its leadership. He noted that calls for younger leaders are not about dismissing experience but about ensuring that leadership aligns with the nation’s youthful population. His electoral success, he argues, stems from his local governance experience, a path he believes is essential for aspiring national leaders.
Next Steps for Gambia’s Political Landscape
- Continued discussions on the role of youth in leadership.
- Potential shifts in political strategies among presidential hopefuls.
- Increased engagement with the youth demographic in political processes.
Leadership in Gambia should prioritize competence and experience over age.
