Mayor Talib Bensouda at the press conference
By Ramatoulie Jawo
The Mayor of the Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC), Talib Ahmed Bensouda, has expressed strong disappointment over what he described as the politicization of recent fire incidents that have affected several markets within the municipality.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Mayor Bensouda addressed the devastating impact of the fires and urged political actors to treat the situation with the seriousness it deserves, rather than using it as an opportunity for partisan gain.
“I must register my disappointment in some of the ministers. I have heard their comments and some of the political operatives. Fire cannot be politicized. Damage to Gambians cannot be politicized. This is not a party issue, it is a national issue when there is a disaster what we must do is to put our politics aside, put partisanship aside and come together as Gambia and leaders to help our people,” he emphasized.
The mayor reaffirmed KMC’s commitment to working collaboratively with all stakeholders, including government agencies, to improve market infrastructure and ensure safer environments for vendors.
He assured affected traders that the council is working tirelessly to help them return to business as quickly as possible so they can continue supporting their families and communities.
Referring specifically to the Sandika market in Serrekunda—one of the council’s key properties—Mayor Bensouda noted that its current state is no longer tenable. He said the council is using lessons from recent incidents to implement long-term solutions.
He also revealed that senior KMC officials met with counterparts from the National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC) on Thursday and held productive discussions aimed at addressing fire-related risks and improving safety standards.
“We have already taken several steps since the incidents and will continue to act not only to prevent future fires but also to ensure that our infrastructure is resilient enough to minimize damage when such events occur,” he said.
Mayor Bensouda concluded by emphasizing that safeguarding public spaces and livelihoods requires unity, responsibility, and leadership that transcends political divides.