Death threats as Gambia situation worsens, rights groups say

DAKAR, Senegal – Human rights groups say the situation in Gambia is worsening as political opponents are detained by authorities and some receive death threats. The tiny West African country awaits a key court ruling Jan. 10 in the disputed presidential election.

President Yahya Jammeh initially conceded defeat in the Dec. 1 vote, only to change his mind a week later. Meanwhile, supporters of President-elect Adama Barrow say he is going ahead with plans for a Jan. 19 inauguration.

Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International said Thursday that two founding members of the #Gambiahasdecided movement have fled the country. The country's election chief also has left Gambia after a threat made against his life.

At least six others have been briefly detained for wearing #Gambiahasdecided T-shirts.