Alcee Hastings: “Mr. Speaker, I offer this resolution today to support and strengthen democracy and democratic forces in Gabon. Gabon is…”

“Mr. Speaker, I offer this resolution today to support and strengthen democracy and democratic forces in Gabon. Gabon is well positioned to move forward to a stable and democratic nation. With a per capita income that is three times that of most nations of sub-Saharan Africa, a relatively high literacy rate, and a billion dollar oil industry, Gabon possesses all the necessary components for true democracy. However, despite these positive attributes, Gabon's elections have not always been transparent because of poor organization and poor execution. While I commend the Government of Gabon for its ongoing efforts to resolve conflicts in Central Africa, I personally would like to encourage that government to take further steps in ensuring that the December presidential election is credible and that the commission remains independent and impartial.”