UN chief welcomes proposal for national dialogue in Gabon

The United Nations has underlined its commitment to supporting the democratic process in Gabon.

In a statement issued on Sunday by his spokesperson, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon welcomed a call for national dialogue in the wake of the country's disputed presidential elections.

Gabon's Constitutional Court has confirmed incumbent Ali Bongo as the winner of the 27 August vote.

Opposition candidate Jean Ping had appealed to the court after preliminary results showed Mr. Bongo had won by a slim margin.

The Secretary-General has taken note of the Constitutional Court's ruling, according to the statement.

Ban Ki-moon had appealed for calm ahead of the announcement.

The statement said that Mr Ban has welcomed the President-elect's proposal for a national dialogue.

Such a process must be representative of all stakeholders, it continued.

The UN chief also called for maximum restraint and full respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms during what he characterized as "this critical and sensitive juncture in the country's history."

The UN remains committed to supporting the democratic process and sustainable development in Gabon, and will continue to work with partners on these issues, the statement concluded.

SOURCE: Dianne Penn, United Nations.