Iran Welcomes Peaceful Transition in Gambia: Spokesman
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Bahram Qassemi announced that Tehran welcomes the peaceful transition of power in The Gambia, as former President Yahya Jammeh left the West African country after 22 years in power.
The Islamic Republic of Iran has always attached great significance to the Republic of Gambia as an important Muslim country in West Africa, Qassemi said in a statement late on Sunday.
The spokesman further praised the efforts made by the West African countries and the role of regional organizations, including the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), in the peaceful transition of power to The Gambia's elected president.
He said such efforts have led to the promotion of democracy in the region and the establishment of peace and tranquility in The Gambia.
Jammeh left The Gambia on Sunday after finally conceding defeat in an election under increasing international pressure.
Jammeh had refused to step down after he lost an election to President Adama Barrow, but bowed to pressure from the West African military that had entered The Gambia to force him to recognize the election outcome.
Speaking earlier on Saturday, he told state television: "I have decided today in good conscience to relinquish the mantle of leadership of this great nation."
Barrow was inaugurated on Thursday in neighboring Senegal, with support from the international community.
He said on Saturday he would return to The Gambia once it is "clear" and a security sweep is completed.
Jammeh's departure ended hours of last-minute negotiations with the leaders of Guinea and Mauritania.
Human rights activists have demanded he be held accountable for alleged abuses - including the torture and detention of opponents.