Gambian President Yahya Jammeh has rejected the result of the election which he lost earlier this month.
In a reversal of his acceptance of the result last week, Jammeh cited “abnormalities” in the vote and called for fresh elections.
Jammeh, who came to power in a coup in 1994, suffered a surprise defeat to Adama Barrow, who won more than 45% of the vote.
Speaking on state TV, he said he now rejected the results “in totality”.
“After a thorough investigation, I have decided to reject the outcome of the recent election,” Mr Jammeh said.
VIDEO: Gambia’s Jammeh congratulates President-elect
“I lament serious and unacceptable abnormalities which have reportedly transpired during the electoral process.
“I recommend fresh and transparent elections which will be officiated by a God-fearing and independent electoral commission.”
According to the electoral commission, Mr Barrow won 263,515 votes (45.5%) in the election on 1 December, while President Jammeh took 212,099 (36.7%). A third-party candidate, Mama Kandeh, won 102,969 (17.8%).
Mr Barrow, a property developer, is due to take office in late January. After his win, Mr Barrow hailed a “new Gambia”.
The Gambia is the smallest country on mainland Africa, with a population of fewer than two million. Tourism has become its fastest-growing sector.
