UN Tells Military to Vacate Gambia’s IEC Premises

By Dipo Olowookere

Expressing dismay at the takeover of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) premises by the military in Gambia, United Nations Secretary-General, Mr Ban Ki-moon, has called on the security forces to immediately vacate the Commission and to refrain from any further acts that could jeopardise efforts towards the peaceful transfer of power.

“This action violates the independent status of the Commission under the Gambian constitution, and could compromise the sensitive electoral material under the IEC’s custody,” said Mr ki-moon, according to a statement issued by his office.

“He condemns this outrageous act of disrespect of the will of the Gambian people and defiance towards the international community at a time when a high-level Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) delegation was in the country to broker a peaceful transfer of power,” the statement added.

It further noted that the UN chief reiterated his call for a peaceful, timely, and orderly transfer of power, in full respect of the will of the Gambian people as expressed in the presidential election.

On Saturday, the UN chief, as well as the UN Security Council had expressed concerns at the outgoing Gambian President’s rejection of the outcome of the election and had urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint, refrain from violence and remain calm.

He had, in particular, urged the country’s defence and security forces, to refrain from any statements or actions that may lead to violence or unrest.