The Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), Ms. Barrie Freeman, expressed the United Nations’ full support for The Gambia’s electoral process and continued democratic consolidation during a courtesy visit to His Excellency President Adama Barrow at the State House in Banjul.
The Gambian leader assured a peaceful and transparent election, stating that security would be provided for all candidates to cover the election to ensure that every candidate and every voter feels safe throughout the process. He reaffirmed his commitment to democracy while building a strong foundation for The Gambia, where elections are decided by the people, not by violence or intimidation.
“The Gambian people will make the decision,” the President said. “The nomination process passed peacefully, and we are engaging all stakeholders to maintain peace.” He stressed that nobody is above the law and that the rule of law will be upheld for all.
Ms. Freeman is in The Gambia to support national preparations for the presidential election, working in coordination with national stakeholders. She will also grace the signing of the Peace Agreement and Peace Pact between political parties and presidential candidates, a key commitment to a peaceful election.
As part of her engagements, she will meet with opposition parties and other key stakeholders to encourage dialogue, tolerance, and respect for democratic principles throughout the electoral period.
President Barrow expressed appreciation for the good relations between The Gambia and the United Nations, and acknowledged the critical role played by UNOWAS in 2016 in ensuring that the Gambian decision was respected.
State House
