Unite party leader and Kanifing Mayor Talib Bensouda recently concluded a tour of 20 villages in the Upper River Region (URR), expressing confidence in challenging the ruling National People's Party (NPP)'s influence there. Bensouda stated he was "pleasantly surprised" by the reception, which he claimed contradicted the popular belief that URR is an NPP stronghold. He noted, "We found that Unite is well established and it is the fastest growing political party within the URR. The reception was amazing for us. People came out in their hundreds and we received a very warm embrace from every village we went to and based on conversation we had with elders, women and youth, we found that URR is hungry for change."
Growing Support Amidst Hardship
Talib Bensouda, leader of the Unite party, affirmed the party's strong establishment and rapid growth within the Upper River Region (URR). He stated Unite is the fastest-growing political party in the area. During his recent tour of 20 villages in the Upper River Region, Mayor Bensouda observed firsthand the significant challenges faced by most families in the URR. He specifically noted critical risks related to poverty and food insecurity as pressing concerns for the local population. Bensouda further noted the prevalent high cost of living, issues of insecurity, and frequent electricity blackouts as major concerns for residents. These observations informed his assessment of the region's needs and the party's growing appeal.
Challenging Perceptions
Talib Bensouda stated that during his tours, villagers turned out in large numbers, providing a warm reception in every community Unite representatives visited. The Unite party leader and Kanifing Mayor Talib Bensouda expressed hope of ending the ruling National People's Party’s dominance in the Upper River Region. Bensouda indicated that there was a mistaken perception that Unite's influence was limited to Kanifing. He asserted that the party now maintains a national presence, extending beyond its traditional base. The Unite party leader described the reception as "amazing for us," noting that residents "came out in their hundreds" and offered a "very warm embrace." He further stated that conversations with elders, women, and youth revealed a desire for change within the URR, challenging the notion that the region is an exclusive stronghold for the ruling National People's Party. These interactions reinforced his belief that Unite is well-established and gaining momentum across the country.
Vision for Change
Talib Bensouda, leader of the Unite party, stated that residents in the Upper River Region (URR) are seeking change. Bensouda indicated that conversations with elders, women, and youth during his tour revealed this desire. He further elaborated on the specific socio-economic issues contributing to this sentiment. He also noted significant economic challenges within the region, pointing to high unemployment rates among the populace. Bensouda further noted a lack of economic opportunities specifically impacting women in the URR, which contributes to the broader economic hardship faced by many families there. These observations were central to his party's assessment of the region's needs, and he conveyed that most families in URR face critical risks regarding poverty, food insecurity, high cost of living, insecurity, and constant blackouts. The Mayor's tour provided a platform to connect directly with the communities and understand their aspirations for a better future, reinforcing his party's commitment to addressing these critical issues.