Gambian President Declares His Country An Islamic Republic

by African Issue | Politics

Gambian President Yahya Jammeh (below) has reportedly declared his Muslim-majority country an Islamic republic and says the move marks a break with the colonial past, according to an African Issue story Saturday.

The Gambian President was quoted as telling the state TV that the proclamation was in line with his country's "religious identity and values", but said no dress code would be imposed and that citizens of other faiths would be allowed to practise freely.

Mr Jammeh has been president of Gambia in West Africa for 21 years and have overseen a period in which the country has been accused of poor human rights record, attracting EU sanctions that led to aid money being withheld temporarily last year.

He withdrew Gambia from the Commonwealth in 2013, describing the organisation as neo-colonial.

"As Muslims are the majority in the country, the Gambia cannot afford to continue the colonial legacy," Mr Jammeh told state TV, explaining his decision to proclaim an Islamic republic.