By Linel Kwatsi
Libreville - Gabon's opposition called on Monday for a recount of a disputed poll that brought the son of long-time leader Omar Bongo to power, and urged an international probe into a crackdown by security forces on protesters.
The joint call by 17 candidates at a news conference in Libreville was their first public statement since Thursday's announcement of Ali Ben Bongo's victory triggered violent street clashes and looting in the central African oil producer.
"We demand a recount of the vote that was interrupted by the president of the electoral commission, on the basis of returns from all polling stations," the candidates, including runner-up former interior minister Andre Mba Obame, said in a statement.
"We call on the Gabonese people to remain mobilised and vigilant for progressive action," they said, without elaborating further on what form that action would take.
They called for an international inquiry to "determine the seriousness of events, the violations of human rights and the responsibilities for this veritable blood bath".
Pierre Mamboundou, the veteran opposition leader, walked out of the news conference before the joint statement was read.
"I am wanted. I am an outlaw, I am sought by the police," he said, a reference to fears among his supporters that he faces arrest for inciting some of the election protests.
Many street protesters were Mamboundou sympathisers.
At least two were reported killed in rioting and looting in the oil hub Port Gentil last week before authorities imposed a curfew and reinforced troop and police numbers. The capital Libreville also saw brief street protests. - Reuters