EU to observe elections in The Gambia

In response to an invitation by the Gambian authorities, the European Union has deployed an Election Observation Mission (EOM) to The Gambia to observe the Parliamentary elections scheduled for 6 April 2017. This would be the first time the EU would be deploying a fully-fledged EOM in The Gambia, reflecting the EU’s commitment to supporting credible, transparent and inclusive elections in the country in a framework of broader democratic reforms.

Federica Mogherini, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy has appointed Mr Miroslav Poche, Member of the European Parliament, as Chief Observer.

“The Gambia caught the world’s attention in January this year, when a tense political stalemate of several weeks finally resulted in a peaceful change of leadership, thus respecting the results of presidential elections. The upcoming parliamentary elections on 6 April will be a new opportunity for the citizens of The Gambia to express their political will. Under the leadership of Chief Observer Mr Miroslav Poche, I am confident that the EU EOM will provide an important contribution to the further strengthening of democratic institutions,” – Federica Mogherini, EU top diplomat said.

“I am honoured to lead the EU EOM to The Gambia. I trust all stakeholders will contribute to ensure that the upcoming elections will be peaceful, transparent and inclusive,” – The Chief Observer, Mr Miroslav Poche said.

Photo: Adama Barrow elected president of The Gambia