Gambian president-elect Adama Barrow vowed to work for national unity and economic growth after power was peacefully transferred in the small West African nation for the first time in its history.

    He pledged Saturday to introduce an independent judiciary, promote media freedom, establish a two-term limit for the presidency and make the civil service transparent and accountable, German News Agency (DPA) quoted him on Saturday as saying.

    He said political prisoners would be freed and a truth and reconciliation process to "amend past injustices" launched. "The position of president is not an ordinary one. I am seeking it to make a difference and give Gambia a new start so that the potential of the country and its citizens would be developed to the fullest," Barrow said in a statement. 

    Barrow said he will form a government that represents all seven coalition parties that supported him during his candidacy. His government will improve the poverty-stricken nation's economy with a focus on agriculture, technology, energy and mining, Barrow said.

Source: QNA