3 CANDIDATES CLAIM PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION VICTORY

According to reports on 31 August 2009, three candidates are claiming victory in Gabon's 30 August presidential election. Ali Ben Bongo -- the son of the late President Omar Bongo -- opposition Gabonese People's Union party leader Pierre Mamboundou and former interior minister Andre Mba Obame have all stated that they have won the election. Preliminary results are expected to be released on 2 September, but the head of Gabon's electoral commission has already warned that there may be delays; official results are expected by 5 September. Reports indicate that voting in the election proceeded peacefully with no reports of major unrest. Although some polling stations opened late due to the initial absence of election officials, voter turnout was high and lines were long. Although 23 candidates were originally registered, only 17 candidates ultimately contested the election to replace President Bongo after five pulled out to back a "unity candidate" and another pulled out on election day, fearing post-poll violence.