Gambia: Protesters call for president’s resignation

By Mustapha K Darboe

BANJUL, Gambia (AA) - A pro-democracy movement in Gambia took to the streets on Monday, calling for President Adama Barrow to resign and organize fresh votes.

Protesters from "3 years jotna" (it’s now 3 years) held a procession at the outskirt of Banjul, from Sting Corner to Denton Bridge, where they delivered a letter to Ebrima Sankareh, the spokesperson of the government.

Barrow came to power on the backing of seven political parties and three independent candidates. The coalition agreement was to serve a three-year transitional term and leave to hold an election in which he will not contest.

"Your excellency, the Gambian people desires for such a democratic foundation in the Gambia, which you agreed, promised and pledged to deliver for them after 3 years," the group said in the letter.

It said Barrow has yet to show a willingness to commit himself to full implementation of the agreement.

"We send you this petition, as members and supporters of that course, to remind you that, it is now 3 years, which marks the end of your transitional government," the group added.

The protesters demand that the president announce to the Gambian people before his term expires when he intends to hold an election.

Barrow’s mandate started on Jan. 19 when his current term, if he honors the coalition agreement, also expires.

The Gambian leader has said at several forum that he intends to serve for five years as stipulated in the country’s constitution.