Gambian president makes U-turn, rejects election results

Gambian leader Yahya Jammeh has rejected the result of the presidential election held earlier this month, a week after admitting defeat.

He said he now recommends fresh and transparent elections which will be officiated by a God-fearing and independent electoral commission

Speaking on state TV, Mr Jammeh cited “abnormalities” in the vote and called for fresh elections.

Mr Jammeh, who came to power in a coup in 1994, suffered a shock defeat to Adama Barrow, who 
won more than 45% of the vote.

Jammeh even conceded defeat on state TV last week, prompting wild celebrations over the ending of Jammeh's 22-year rule, a government that human-rights groups accused of detaining, torturing and killing opponents.

Mr Barrow, a property developer, is due to take office in late January.

The fresh announcement Jammeh made on state television on Friday throws the future of the West African country into doubt after the unexpected election results.

Mai Ahmad Fatty, the head of Barrow's transition team, told Reuters they were “consulting on what to do”, adding:

 “As far as we are concerned, the people have voted. We will maintain peace and stability and not let anyone provoke us into violence.”

The Gambia is the smallest country on mainland Africa, with a population of fewer than two million.

Mr Jammeh said that he now rejected the results of the election “in totality”.

“After a thorough investigation, I have decided to reject the outcome of the recent election,” Mr Jammeh said.

“I lament serious and unacceptable abnormalities which have reportedly transpired during the electoral process.

“I recommend fresh and transparent elections which will be officiated by a God-fearing and independent electoral commission.”