Below is a press release from the US Embassy.
"The United States applauds President Jammeh’s recent decision to lift Decree 89, which banned some former government officials and some political parties from political activity. Decree 89 was an impediment to the democratic process, particularly to presidential elections slated for October and legislative elections scheduled for early next year. Consequently, the decision constitutes a step forward in the quest for genuinely democratic elections.
The upcoming elections will be critical for The Gambia. The repeal of decree of Decree 89 opens the door for all credible political aspirants to contest for office. It is now time for these aspirants to begin to plan their campaigns. In this vein, we ask that all political players do their utmost to contribute to a healthy political atmosphere, to contribute to the conduct of free and fair elections and to insure that the will of The Gambian people is respected.
Again, we commend the Government of The Gambia for lifting the ban on political activity. This will be recorded as an important event for democratization and for the people of The Gambia.
US EMBASSY
BANJUL
31ST JULY 2001"
PEACE
Tombong