Gabonese voted in a national election Aug. 30 to replace the late President Omar Bongo, who ruled for more than four decades and ran as the only candidate in many elections.

The election in the West African country appeared to be peaceful, but a major opposition candidate — one of 18 competing on the ballot — withdrew from the contest, saying he feared post-election violence.

Election results were expected soon and the leading contender in the race is the dead ruler's son, Ali Bongo Ondimba, the nominee of Gabon's ruling party.

Omar Bongo, who ruled for more than 41 years, died in June.