IMPACT – HIGH

Security in Gambia remained precarious Thursday, as long-time President Yahya Jammeh refused to leave power. The BBC and other media outlets reported that Senegalese troops had entered the country to seek his ouster. The country’s newly elected president, Adama Barrow, was sworn into office Thursday at the Gambian embassy in Senegal. The instability left tourists scrambling to leave.

Key Points:

  • Companies should account for all employees in Gambia and develop plans for them to leave the country if necessary.
  • Foreign nationals who choose to remain in Gambia are urged to monitor the security situation closely. The U.S. State Department suggested on Jan. 7 that U.S. citizens have “evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance” and that they “ensure that travel documents (passports and visas) are valid and up-to-date.”

Background: Jammeh was defeated in a Dec. 1 election, but has refused to give up power. Wednesday was supposed to be his final day in office, but the parliament granted his request Wednesday to declare a state of emergency and extend his term by 90 days. Tourists were advised to leave the country as the situation grew more precarious. West African countries demanded that Jammeh step down and threatened to remove him by force if necessary. Media reports said that Senegalese troops had entered the country. The BBC reported that the “West African regional bloc Ecowas has now given Yahya Jammeh until noon on Friday to leave office.”

BAL Analysis: The situation in Gambia remained extremely serious Thursday. Companies should account for all employees in the country. Government services, including consular services, are likely to be limited if available at all.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact BerryApplemanLeiden@bal.com.

Copyright © 2016 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Delays in immigration services are possible as Gambia braces for a tense presidential election Dec. 1. 

What does the change mean? Employers and foreign nationals should prepare for work permit and visa processing delays. Those in need of timely immigration services should submit applications as early as possible.

  • Implementation time frame: Ongoing.
  • Visas/permits affected: All visas, permits and other government services.
  • Who is affected: Companies and foreign employees seeking government services before and after the Dec. 1 election.
  • Impact on processing times: Processing may take longer than usual.

Background: Gambian President Yahya Jammeh is seeking a fifth presidential term after taking power in a 1994 coup. Opposition groups have united behind businessman Adama Barrow, who is mounting the most serious election challenge Jammeh has yet faced, according to numerous media outlets. Human Rights Watch has accused Jammeh of using violence and intimidation, tactics which he has denied. The election has Gambia on edge and immigration delays seem likely, both in the lead-up to the Dec. 1 vote and afterward.

B·A·L Analysis: Businesses may have to rearrange travel schedules or start dates if delays become serious. BAL will continue to monitor events in Gambia and provide updates as needed.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

Copyright © 2016 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.