Embattled President Yahya Jammeh of Gambia is fast losing out in the power play as the vital ministers in his dying government, including the ministers of Finance, Foreign Affairs, Trade and Environment have just resigned from his government.
This is coming in less than 48 hours to his official handing over of government to Adama Barro of the opposition party who won the December 1st Presidential election.
The ministers resigned just as regional forces, powered by the Economic Community Of West African State (ECOWAS) prepare to oust the veteran leader unless he steps down by Thursday.
President Jammeh, in power since a 1994 coup, has become increasingly isolated at home and abroad after he refused to accept his electoral defeat.
The surprise loss was seen as a boost to democracy in the former British colony, which has had only two presidents since it gained independence in 1965.
President Jammeh’s defiance has sent the tiny West African country into crisis, causing government defections and opening up the prospect of military intervention by other countries in the region.
A senior Nigerian military source said Nigeria and other West African nations are prepared to intervene militarily to remove him if he remains in office after Wednesday, when his presidential mandate runs out.
“The chiefs of defence staff of West African countries met on Monday to discuss strategies on the best way to get Yahya Jammeh out if he refuses to hand over power,’’ said the Nigerian source, who declined to be identified.
“Some West African countries will be contributing troops, including Nigeria, for the operation,’’ said the source, adding that the United Nations and African Union had offered support to regional body ECOWAS for the plan.
According to Gambian state television, Finance Minister, Abdou Kolley was being replaced.
Ministry sources said other government leaders including Foreign minister Neneh Macdouall-Gaye had left the government and the country. Their departures follow the resignation of communications minister Sheriff Bojang last week.
The mayor of the capital Banjul has also resigned, according to sources at the city council.
NAN. [myad]
