Chairman Menendez Statement on the Military Coup in Gabon

WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released a statement on the recent military coup in Gabon.

“I am deeply concerned about the military coup in Gabon and the sham election that preceded. The Gabonese people deserve the right to participate in a genuine democratic process that results in a truly representative government. I call on the Gabonese military to return the country to civilian rule that will chart a path for a credible electoral contest as quickly as possible,” said Chairman Menendez. “The string of coups in Africa over the last three years has demonstrated the need for a clear, consistent response by the region and by partners, including the United States. We must increase our efforts to promote democracy, human rights and good governance by supporting civilian actors and holding accountable those who would deny them their rights.”

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