Secretary-General, Following Developments in Gambia, Reiterates United Nations’ Principled Condemnation of Unconstitutional Seizure of Power

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General is following closely developments in the Gambia.

He reiterates the United Nations principled condemnation of all attempts to seize power through unconstitutional means.  Referring to reports that indicate that the situation in Banjul is calm, he calls for all parties to exercise restraint and to refrain from further violence.

Noting the seriousness of any attempt to overthrow Governments by force, the Secretary-General encourages the establishment of a transparent investigation into the events of 30 December, in compliance with due process and respect for the rule of law.  In that regard, he urges the Government of the Gambia and its security and defence forces to act in full respect for human rights

The United Nations will continue to closely monitor the situation.