The Daily Observer (Banjul)
28 December 2011
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The British Minister for Africa, the UN, Overseas Territories and Conflict Issues has said that the high turnout in the November 24th Presidential election in The Gambia, demonstrates the importance with which the Gambian people view the country’s democratic process . In a congratulatory message sent to President-elect Jammeh from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Henry Bellingham MP, expressed hope that the large majority that President-elect Jammeh achieved will enable him and his government to continue with reforms necessary to make his vision a reality.
The letter reads:
Congratulations on your recent re-election as the President of The Gambia. The high turnout demonstrates the importance with which the Gambian people view the democratic process. The aspirations for The Gambia that you set out in your victory speech were clear. You wanted to see improved socio-economic development, to see The Gambia become the most literate country in Africa and to develop it as a centre for technological expertise. I hope the large majority that you achieved will enable you and your Government to continue with the reforms necessary to make your vision a reality.
Whilst I acknowledge the progress that has already been made, I hope you will agree that there is still much to do, not least by continuing to open up political space, fostering debate and dialogue and by making respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms a defining feature of your administration.
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