UNSC confirms legitimacy of Adama Barrow as President of Gambia

NEW YORK, Jan 19 (KUNA) -- The UN Security Council adopted unanimously resolution 2337 confirming Adama Barrow as legitimate and democratically elected President of Gambia, urging all Gambian parties and stakeholders to respect the will of the people and the outcome of the election.
Noting the official results of the elections issued by the Gambian Independent Electoral Commission, the recognition of Barrow's win by former President Yahya Jammeh, the Council called upon the countries in the region and the relevant regional organization to cooperate with President Barrow in his efforts to realize the transition of power.
The Senegalese drafted resolution, requests former President Jammeh to carry out a peaceful and orderly transition process, and to transfer power to President Adama Barrow by January 19, 2017 in accordance with the Gambian constitution, emphasizing the importance that the safety of Barrow.
Further, the 15-member body requested all stakeholders, within and outside The Gambia, to "exercise restraint, respect the rule of law and ensure the peaceful transfer of power." The Council adopted this resolution sending a clear message to Jammeh who refuses to peacefully transfer power to his successor, France's Representative to the UN Francois Delattre told the press.
"Bear in mind, and this is a very important message, that no efforts have been spared, that no stone has been unturned since Jammeh refused the outcome of the elections," he added.
On his part, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres called earlier today, Barrow, the Gambian President to discuss the latest developments in the country and to congratulate him on his inauguration.
In a statement released by his press office, Guterres expressed deep concern about the refusal of outgoing President Jammeh to step aside and about the high outflow of Gambians into Senegal.
The UN Chief told President Barrow of his full support for his determination, and ECOWAS's historic decision, with the unanimous backing of the Security Council, to restore the rule of law in The Gambia so as to honor and respect the will of the Gambian people, the statement added.
Further, Guterres conveyed the readiness of the UN system to support President Barrow and his government in their efforts to promote democracy and achieve sustainable development in The Gambia. (end) mao.ibi