Langevin Resolution Supports Peaceful Installation of Gambian President Adama Barrow

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) introduced a resolution today to
support the peaceful transition of power in The Gambia, as Adama Barrow prepares to
be installed as President. The resolution, cosponsored by Congressman Dan Donovan
(R-NY), denounces the 22-year oppressive rule of former President Yahya Jammeh, who
lost to Barrow in the December 2016 election and whose subsequent challenge to the
election results caused additional unrest in the country.

«President Barrow’s victory represents a turning point for The Gambia and its
people, and I am hopeful that his leadership will bring to an end decades of civil
and political unrest,» said Langevin. «The installation of President Barrow is an
affirmation of democracy, of free and fair elections, and of the dignity and respect
that should be afforded to all people. I congratulate him on his victory, and I wish
him the best as he leads his nation to a better, more peaceful future.»

Former President Jammeh took power following a coup in 1994, and his rule was marred
by violence and human rights violations. After losing to Barrow, Jammeh declared a
state of emergency, a move that was deemed an «unacceptable breach of faith» by the
U.S. Department of State. Langevin’s resolution calls for the peaceful installation
of President Barrow with the help of peacekeeping forces of the Economic Community
of West African States (ECOWAS), and an end to the ongoing unrest following the
political crisis.