The Public Announcement is being issued to provide information regarding possible election violence in Gabon. This Public Announcement expires January 15, 2003.

On December 29, local and municipal elections will be held throughout the Gabonese Republic. In the past, periods leading up to elections have been associated with an increase in reports of violent crime and suspicious deaths with ritualistic characteristics. Based on previous events, the U.S. Embassy in Libreville advises American citizens in Gabon to be especially vigilant over the coming weeks and to utilize standard personal safety precautions. All citizens are encouraged to exercise caution when traveling and to avoid circumstances that would place them in unfamiliar locations and situations in both urban and rural areas. Careful thought should be given before traveling alone or with persons not well known to you. Americans should report any threats or suspicious activity to the Embassy in Libreville and continue to monitor the local media for developments that may affect their safety and security.

U.S. citizens are encouraged to register and update their contact information and obtain current security information from the U.S. Embassy in Libreville. The U.S. Embassy can be reached at (241) 76-20-03/04.

Americans should closely monitor the Department's website at . For additional information on travel to Gabon, please consult the Department of State's latest Consular Information Sheet for Gabon. Travelers should also review the Department's Worldwide Caution Public Announcement.