The Gambia will be withdrawing from the Commonwealth, 48 years after joining.
Two years ago President Yahya Jammeh accused the UK of backing his political opposition ahead of elections. The UK said it would "very much regret" The Gambia leaving the Commonwealth.
There is a history of tension between President Jammeh, who came to power in a 1994 coup, and the UK.
Earlier this year, a Foreign Office report singled out The Gambia for its human rights record, citing cases of unlawful detentions, illegal closures of newspapers and discrimination against minority groups.
In August last year The Gambia was criticised by Amnesty International and others for executing nine prisoners by firing squad.
The Commonwealth was founded in 1931 but acquired its modern shape after 1949 as former British colonies and protectorates, including The Gambia, started to achieve self-government. Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday
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Stupid reason to leave.
ReplyDeleteOf course its another corrupt African government with a known despot at the helm. I wonder what the common man of The Gambia would say on this and whether he agrees.
Africa never changes. I wish.....but not likely in my lifetime.
Why should Europe esp Britain and America dictate to Africa Leaders?I don't see anything wrong with pulling out of Commonwealth!
ReplyDeleteMy advice to President ;focus on free education and more accessible health care facilities for your country!
Mary
Good decision.
ReplyDeleteWhat are we benefiting from common wealth?
To get UK Visa, It is as difficult as writing JAMB so what is the benefit.