US troubled by events in Gabon, urges restraint

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The United States said on Wednesday it is deeply concerned about events in Gabon and urged restraint by security forces in the oil exporting nation, where official results showed Ali Bongo re-elected president despite his opponent Jean Ping having claimed victory.

“The United States is deeply concerned regarding unfolding events in Gabon. We take note of the results released by the electoral commission and urge all sides to temper their rhetoric and encourage their supporters to remain calm,” State Department spokesman John Kirby said in a statement.
“We also urge all security forces to act with both restraint and respect for the human rights of all Gabonese citizens.”