Gabon is holding its first presidential election today since the adoption of its new constitution in November, which limits the presidential term to seven years, renewable once.

Polling stations opened at 7:00 a.m. local time (0600 GMT) and will close at 6:00 p.m. (1700 GMT). Results are expected to be announced on Sunday.

Eight candidates are contesting the presidency, including interim President Brice Oligui Nguema and former Prime Minister Alain Claude Billie By Nze.