Gambian President Adama Barrow has promised to peacefully hand over power if he loses the upcoming presidential election in December.

“I am a democrat. It is the Gambian people who make the decision. And Gambian people, whatever they decide I will respect that,” the president said to journalists after submitting his credentials at the country’s Independent Electoral Commission in Kanifing on Thursday, Xinhua news agency reported.

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Barrow also advised the electoral body to remain independent in its functions to ensure a level playing field so that all parties will be able to accept the results, the final decision of the Gambian people.

Barrow’s reelection will be challenged by a list of other nominees, including Ousainou Darboe, veteran lawyer and leader of the biggest opposition party United Democratic Party.