Gambian president Yahya Jammeh rejects election result, calls for fresh election

Ousted Gambia's President of 22-years, Yahya Jammeh has rejected the outcome of last week’s election, which he lost to opposition leader Adama Barrow after he made it clear that he isn't going to relinquish power without a fight.

The 51-year-old leader of the tiny West African country, made the announcement on state television on Friday, saying he rejects the result of the December, 1 presidential election -- citing "unacceptable abnormalities" -- and demanded a fresh vote.

"After a thorough investigation, I have decided to reject the outcome of the recent election in totality,"" he said.

"I lament serious and unacceptable abnormalities which have reportedly transpired during the electoral process.

"Our investigations revealed that in some cases, voters were told the opposition won already, they returned home," he said

"I recommend fresh and transparent elections which will be officiated by a god-fearing and independent electoral commission."

Jammeh added that that the number of voter cards did not tally with the national voter register.
He had previously called Barrow to congratulate him as winner, conceding defeat and vowing not to contest the result.

Jammeh lost to opposition candidate Adama Barrow who won more than 45 percent of votes.

Barrow on Friday told Gambia's Daily Observer;

"I have been declared the winner and the incumbent President Jammeh has congratulated me, which I think is a move in the right direction."

"We have to be patient because nothing will come easy and nothing is automatic," he added.

"We are ready and we will work round the clock to make a difference but we are calling on every Gambians to put hands on deck. It is through hard work that we can achieve a better Gambia."

Jammeh, took power in Gambia in 1994 during a military coup.