Chidi Samuel
Yahya Jammeh, the strong man of Gambian politics and long time leader is expected to go into exile Saturday. His Country of choice is not yet known but he is expected to depart the Gambia with the President of Guinea, one of the leaders who brokered the peace deal Friday.
The former Gambian President agreed to step down Friday night after months of refusing to accept the results of last years Presidential election won by Mr Adama Barrow of the opposition party.
In an announcement on state TV, Jammeh said it was “not necessary that a single drop of blood be shed”.
“I have decided today in good conscience to relinquish the mantle of leadership of this great nation with infinite gratitude to all Gambians,” he said.
“I promise before Allah and the entire nation that all the issues we currently face will be resolved peacefully.
His decision to quit followed hours of talks between Mr Jammeh and West African mediators. Details of the deal West African leaders struck with Jammeh has not yet been made public.
Troops from several West African nations, lead by Senegal and Nigeria were already deployed in The Gambia,ready to drive Mr Jammeh out of office if he insists on clinging to power.