The African Union Commission has condemned the attempted coup in Gabon, calling it a "direct violation" of the bloc's legal and political frameworks.

In a statement, AU Commission Chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat said he was "deeply concerned" about the situation in Gabon and called on all political, civil, and military stakeholders to prioritize peaceful avenues of political resolution.

The coup attempt was launched on Wednesday by a group of rebel officers who claimed to have taken control of the government.

The officers said they were acting in response to disputes surrounding the results of the general elections of 26 August 2023, which declared President Ali Bongo Ondimba the winner.

Faki Mahamat said the AU "unequivocally denounces" the attempted coup d'etat and called on the national army and security forces to uphold their commitment to the nation's well-being.

He also urged all stakeholders to "refrain from any action that could further destabilize the situation" and to work together to resolve the crisis peacefully. (ILKHA)