By Felix Khanoba
The Commonwealth Observer Group (COG) has commended the peaceful and orderly conduct of Gabon’s April 12 presidential election, describing the process as calm and transparent.
The Group, however, encouraged the government to deepen citizen participation in future elections.
In an interim statement released in Libreville, the COG recommended extended periods of public sensitization to help citizens understand their constitutional right to vote and actively take part in democratic processes.
According to the group, enhanced civic participation would enable citizens to make informed decisions and engage more effectively in the democratic process.
The Observer Group, chaired by former Seychelles President Danny Faure, presented its preliminary findings at a press briefing.
Faure told journalists: “It is the view of the Commonwealth Observer Group that this election appeared largely transparent, was peaceful, and conducted in accordance with the established legislative framework of Gabon, and that citizens were able to freely exercise their franchise. We congratulate and commend the people of Gabon for exercising their right to vote and reaffirming their faith in the principles of democracy.”
The group also expressed delight on positive changes in the country’s media environment, observing that journalists experienced less state interference. Nonetheless, it called for stricter enforcement of equal airtime provisions to ensure all candidates—particularly those without government support—have fair access to the media.
On the vote-counting process, the group cautioned against premature dissemination of voter statistics:
“While counting had barely commenced, there were already official projections of voter turnout and participation rates. The Group cautions on the communications of statistics before final verification as this could potentially undermine trust in the process.”
Looking ahead, the COG advised a thorough post-election review and proposed the establishment of a local mechanism to assess and implement observer recommendations, especially as Gabon prepares for upcoming legislative and municipal elections.
The final report from the Observer Group, which will include detailed findings and suggestions for strengthening Gabon’s electoral system, will be submitted to Commonwealth Secretary-General Hon Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey and shared with relevant authorities and the public.
