Gambian army 'sorry' after soldiers tear off opposition posters

The Gambian army has apologised after some soldiers were seen pulling down campaign posters of opposition politician Mayor Taliba Ahmed Bensouda.

Mr Bensouda is running for re-election in Kanifing which is the biggest municipality in The Gambia. Political tensions have been rising ahead of Saturday's mayoral and regional elections in the country.

The soldiers' actions have caused outrage among Gambians who have condemned their behaviour.

In a statement on Thursday, the army said it was investigating the involved soldiers but termed their actions an isolated incident.

"We wish to assure the general public that appropriate actions will be taken against anyone found wanting. Meanwhile, we regret any inconvenience this unfortunate incident might have caused," the army said.

Mr Bensouda came to office in 2018 under the United Democratic Party (UDP), the original political home of President Adama Barrow.

But President Barrow later fell out with the UDP and formed his own National People's Party.

Many observers now say Mr Bensouda is likely to be the main challenger in the 2026 presidential election.

This article originally appeared on BBC News.

Image via BBC News.