The European Union Commission and the British Government has rejected military takeover power in Gabon while called for the restoration of constitutional government.
Recall that in a French statement on Wednesday which was read out by one of the officer on Gabon 24 television channel said the military junta has announced “putting an end to the regime” and cancelling the results of a recent election.
The military who expressed dissatisfaction to the general elections of 26 August 2023, admitted that the organisation of the polls did not meet the conditions for a transparent, credible and inclusive ballot which brings so much hoped for people of Gabon
The outcome of the election heightened tensions, forcing the military to intervene. “We have decided to defend peace by putting an end to the current regime,” one of the soldiers said during the declaration.
This, the Gabonese military junta added, was down to “irresponsible, unpredictable governance resulting in a continuing deterioration in social cohesion that risks leading the country into chaos”.
The EU in a statement released through his High Representative, Josep Borell said the challenges facing Gabon must be resolved by respecting the principles of the rule of law, constitutional order and democracy.
“The country’s peace and prosperity, as well as regional stability, depend on it. The EU shares serious concerns about the way the electoral process, which preceded the military coup, was organized and conducted.
“But inclusive and substantive dialogue ensuring that the rule of law and human rights are respected, not force, is the way to ensure that the will, as expressed by the Gabonese people, is respected”, he said.
The UK Minister for Development and Africa, Andrew Mitchell, said his country acknowledged concerns raised regarding the recent electoral process, including restrictions on media freedom.
He urged all parties and citizens to commit to and follow legal and constitutional processes to resolve any electoral disputes, asked British nationals who need consular support should make contact on +44 20 7008 5000. “We continue to monitor the situation in Gabon”, the Minister said