PRESS STATEMENT

The Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union (AU), at its 620th meeting held on 2 September 2016, received a briefing by the Commission on the presidential election in Gabon.
Council took note of the briefing by the Commission on the preliminary results of the presidential election in Gabon held on 27 August 2016, as announced on 31 August 2016 by the Commission Electorale Nationale Autonome Paritaire of Gabon, as well as on the unfolding situation in the country.

Council also took note of the Press Statement issued by the Chairperson of the Commission on 1 September 2016.

Council expressed concern over the unfolding violence in Gabon following the proclamation of the preliminary results of the presidential election. In this regard, Council also expressed concern over the negative consequences that the present situation could have on the preservation of peace and stability in the country and the region as a whole.

Council expressed its sincere condolences to the families of the victims and wished speedy recovery to the injured. Council deplored the destruction of private and public property and called for the return to calm.

Council called on all Gabonese stakeholders to demonstrate utmost restraint and make use of all available legal and constitutional channels to resolve any difference pertaining to the results of the elections.

Council underlined the urgent need for addressing the current situation in Gabon, on the basis of respect of the Constitution and the aspiration of the people of Gabon to the deepening of democracy in their country, as well as on consensus among all concerned Gabonese stakeholders, in conformity with the relevant AU instruments.

Council affirmed the AU’s continued support to the people of Gabon, in close coordination with the region and the relevant partners, in their efforts to address the current situation in the country.

Council agreed to remain seized of the matter.