UN chief calls for peaceful presidential election in Gabon

On the eve of the presidential election in Gabon, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon Friday called on Gabonese to exercise their civic duty and hold the poll in a peaceful and credible manner.

Ban also called on all political stakeholders and the candidates to avoid acts of incitement and maintain a peaceful atmosphere before, during and after the election, said a statement by his spokesperson.

The UN chief also called on all candidates to "contribute to the integrity of the electoral process by addressing any complaints that may arise through established legal and constitutional channels," it added.

Gabon is going to hold its presidential election on Saturday. The country's incumbent President Ali Bongo Ondimba will compete against 11 other candidates.

The Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) has said it will send 20 election observers to Gabon. The African Union and the European Union will also monitor the forthcoming elections.

Source : XINHUA