EU calls for calm as Gabon descends into 'deep crisis'

The EU called Thursday for all sides in Gabon to reject violence as the country descended into chaos after President Ali Bongo was declared winner of disputed polls.

"The official announcement of results has plunged Gabon into a deep crisis," European Union foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini said in a statement.

"It is important for all parties to reject violence and call for calm," Mogherini added.

Thousands of angry protesters poured onto the streets of Libreville accusing the government of stealing the election after Bongo won a second term by a razor-thin margin over rival Jean Ping, who said security forces killed two people on Thursday.

"Any challenge must be made with peaceful means in order to avoid any conflagration in the country. Security forces must react responsibly," Mogherini said.

"Trust in the election results can only be restored through a transparent verification, polling station by polling station."

She added that the EU is in contact with all its African and other partners in order to promote a peaceful resolution to the crisis.