There are indications the Economic Community of West Africa (ECOWAS) will apply force in getting embattled president of Gambia, Yahya Jammeh out of power if he fails to step down next year when his tenure expires.
The president of the regional bloc, Marcel de Souza is reported by Reuters to have said on Thursday that standby forces have been put “on alert” should Mr. Jammeh refuse to step down on Jan. 19.
The Gambian president lost elections on December 1 but has refused to accept the results although he initially conceded defeat and congratulated his opponent, Adama Barrow who was declared winner of the elections.
Mr. Jammeh had earlier called the bluff of ECOWAS leaders asking him to give up power and accused them of interfering in the internal affairs of Gambia.
“Already the ECOWAS meeting was a formality. Before they came, they had already said Jammeh must step down. I will not step down,” he said.
Mr. Jammeh further said that “I am not a coward. My right cannot be intimidated and violated. This is my position. Nobody can deprive me of that victory except the Almighty Allah”.
De Souza said on Malian state television during a visit to Bamako that regional leaders are offering Mr. Jammeh an “honorable exit” but if he does not take it then forces could be deployed.
Source: Africafeeds.com
