As Gambians prepare to choose their next president on Saturday, the UN Secretary-General asked on Friday for voters to help foster “a peaceful environment” at the polls.  

In a statement released by his Spokesperson, António Guterres calls “on the electoral management body, candidates, political party leaders and their followers, through their conduct, to ensure a peaceful environment conducive to a credible, inclusive and transparent” election process.  

As part of the preparations for the election, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for West Africa and the Sahel, Annadif Khatir Mahamat Saleh, is visiting the country.  

During the three days visit, Mr. Saleh, who also acts as the head of the UN Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), will meet election observers, civil society organisations and the UN Country Team.  

On Friday, the Special Representative also had talks with the Gambian Minister of Foreign Affairs. 

Mr. Saleh is accompanied by the Assistant Secretary-General for Africa, Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee.