The Gambia: Freedom House Applauds Peaceful Elections, Urges Peaceful Transition
Former Argos security guard set to rule Gambia as president Yahya Jammeh ‘concedes defeat’ after 22 years of rule by fear Adama Barrow
Washington – December 2, 2016 — In response to the release of The Gambia’s December 1, 2016 election results, Freedom House issued the following statement:
Gambians celebrate the victory of opposition coalition candidate Adama Barrow against longtime President Yahya Jammeh in the streets of Serrekunda, Gambia, Friday Dec. 2, 2016. (AP Photo/Jerome Delay)
“Freedom House congratulates the people of The Gambia on a largely peaceful election day,” said Vukasin Petrovic, director for Central, East and West Africa programs. “Freedom House encourages all parties to accept the will of the people and positively notes President Yahya Jammeh’s intention to concede. This move signals a hopeful path for The Gambia’s future democratic prospects.”
Background:
On December 1, 2016, The Gambia’s incumbent President Yahya Jammeh faced opposition candidate Adama Barrow in national elections. Despite a complete shutdown of the internet and international speculation that President Jammeh would not allow a challenge to his 22 years in power, the electoral commission announced an opposition victory.
Gambias former President-Al-Hadji-Yahya-Jammeh
Gambians celebrate the victory of opposition coalition candidate Adama Barrow
The Gambia is rated Not Free in Freedom in the World 2016, Not Free in Freedom of the Press 2016, and Not Free in Freedom on the Net 2016.
Freedom House is an independent watchdog organization that supports democratic change, monitors the status of freedom around the world, and advocates for democracy and human rights.
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