Thomas Cook is to fly almost 1,000 UK customers out of the Gambia, as the UK Foreign Office (FCO) advises against all but essential travel to the country. The country’s political situation has been deteriorating since incumbent president Yahya Jammeh refused to hand power to Adama Barrow, who won in last month’s elections. The Gambia’s parliament extended president Yahya Jammeh’s term by 90 days on Wednesday, but regional leaders have threatened to use military force if he refuses to cede power. The FCO have advised tourists: “The potential for military intervention and civil disturbance is high and could result in Banjul International Airport being closed at short notice.”Thousands of Gambians are also reportedly been leaving the country in fear of the situation deteriorating into war. If you’re in the Gambia, we’d like you to share your experiences of the political situation and state of emergency with us – anonymously, if you prefer – by filling in the form below.

Source: The Guardian January 18, 2017 12:28 UTC