We are deeply concerned by yesterday’s statement by the Gambian President that he will not after all accept the results of the presidential elections held on 1 December 2016. President Jammeh is thus disregarding the democratic will of the Gambian people, which they expressed in fair elections and with a clear majority on 1 December, and reneging on his previous promise to respect the election outcome.

We call upon all those in positions of responsibility to respect the will of the voters in the Gambia, refrain from violence and resume political dialogue without delay.