1 September 2016 – Voicing deep concerns about the unfolding electoral crisis in Gabon, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today called for restraint and the upholding of international standards of human rights there –and expressed UN support for a transparent verification of its recent presidential election results.
“I am deeply concerned and saddened about the crisis in the Gabonese Republic provoked by the electoral crisis, in particular the arson attacks and disproportionate response of security agencies that has led to unfortunate loss of life and property,” the UN chief said in a statement.
The UN chief has been closely following developments in the African nation in the wake of its recent and closely-contested presidential election. Earlier this week, he spoke with the President of Gabon, Ali Bongo Ondimba, and the presidential candidate of the Démocratie Nouvelle party, Jean Ping, in separate telephone call.
