“I Walked Out”: Coalition Chairman Reveals What Happened Before Talib Was Selected

What really happened behind closed doors before Talib Ahmed Bensouda emerged as Coalition 2026 flagbearer? Coalition Mediation Committee Chairman Professor Yerro Mballow joins Bitilo for an exclusive account of one of the most dramatic days yet in the opposition's attempt to unite ahead of the 2026 presidential election. Prof. Mballow and former Vice President Fatoumatta Jallow Tambajang recommended suspending the flagbearer process after allegations of inducements emerged — and then walked out. The remaining stakeholders subsequently continued consultations and announced Talib Bensouda as flagbearer. Why did Mballow walk out? What exactly were the allegations? Who was allegedly approached? Why did the process continue despite the concerns of two senior mediators? And does he recognize Talib Bensouda as the legitimate Coalition 2026 flagbearer? We put those questions — and more — directly to the man who chaired the mediation process. Bitilo | Leading Today’s Conversation