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Statement by Kofi Annan on the Gambian elections

Yaya Jammeh should put the country first and accept defeat

Geneva, 12 December 2016

On 2 December, I bade President Jammeh farewell, and I stand by that.

I have since learned that Yaya Jammeh is contesting the results of the recent presidential elections, after having initially conceded defeat and congratulated his successor.

I welcomed President Jammeh’s statesmanlike concession following his defeat in the elections and encourage him to honour his word.

A smooth and peaceful transition of power in Banjul would send a signal of hope to all Gambians that they can choose their own destinies through the democratic exercise of their right to vote.