ADD GABONESE PRESIDENT'S REACTION
By Mevlut Ozkan
ISTANBUL (AA) - The Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) lifted a partial suspension on Gabon on Tuesday, welcoming its return to a constitutional democracy following an 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 upholding 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 on 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 nation.
Nguema in a post on X welcomed the lifting of his country’s suspension, which he said affected Gabon within the Commonwealth.
“This decision marks the recognition of our sovereignty by the international community and acknowledges the efforts made since the beginning of the Transition. It testifies to the effectiveness of our participatory diplomacy, carried out with commitment by our institutions, our representatives, and the entire Gabonese people,” he said.
"Gabon is reclaiming its rightful place, with dignity and responsibility, in the concert of nations. This victory is that of our shared commitment to the restoration of the State, justice, and the honor of our Nation.”
*Additional reporting by James Tasamba in Kigali