Commonwealth lifts partial suspension on Gabon, welcomes return to constitutional democracy

​​​​​​​By Mevlut Ozkan

ISTANBUL (AA) - The Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) lifted the partial suspension on Gabon on Tuesday, welcoming its return to constitutional democracy following the April 12 presidential election.

The Commonwealth Observer Group found the election “largely reflected the will of the people who voted and that it was conducted in a credible, transparent and inclusive manner,” the CMAG said in a statement.

The group said it reaffirmed its dedication to uphold the fundamental values and principles of the Commonwealth in a virtual meeting.

The CMAG “firmly” reiterated its “strong condemnation” of any unconstitutional ousting of elected governments, calling it a violation of the democratic principles “at the heart of the Commonwealth” and a “serious breach” of the Commonwealth Charter.

It agreed to keep Gabon on its agenda as the Central African country advances toward meeting its Commonwealth Charter obligations, urging the Commonwealth secretary-general to stay engaged, and encouraged Gabon to strengthen the rule of law, separation of powers and good governance.

The group also recommended that Gabon make full use of Commonwealth support to promote peace and democratic stability.

It said Gabonese representatives expressed gratitude for the Commonwealth’s support.

Gabon held a presidential election April 12 in which Transitional President Brice Oligui Nguema was declared the winner with 94.85% of the vote.

Nguema, 50, spearheaded a military coup in Gabon in August 2023 that ousted former President Ali Bongo, ending the so-called 56-year Bongo dynasty in the oil-producing Central African nation.​​​​​​​