Ali Bongo, 57, has won a second term as head of Gabon in a closely contested election. Sources inside the country’s electoral commission told Reuters that he won with 49.85 per cent of the vote. Before his election in 2009, this tiny oil-rich state had been ruled for 41 years by his father, Omar.
His rival, Jean Ping, a half-Chinese diplomat lost with 48.16 per cent (he actually claimed victory two days ago). Many of the electorate were also surprised that it had taken as long as five days to count a measly 600,000 votes.
On Twitter, some people remained unconvinced:
#Gabon's electoral commission will have to explain why turnout was at 99.93 pct in #Bongo's stronghold Haut-Ogooué but 59pct nationally
— Bate Felix (@BateFelix) August 31, 2016
Ping demands recount in one province that had voter turnout of 99.98 pct; the EU asks for detailed results for every polling station. #Gabon
— James Macharia Chege (@machariawachege) August 31, 2016
In 2016, France still decides who wins elections in #Gabon… I like how your Africa is apparently rising.
— Nicolas-Patience Basabose RGTABWB (@MrBasabose) August 30, 2016
He won a province with 95%. Well done. Dictators all over the world must be proud. #Gabon2016
— Mon Soleil (@LouiseNocadi) August 31, 2016