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.