Rose Francine Rogombe has been sworn in as Gabon's interim president, succeeding the late President Omar Bongo.
The former head of Gabon's senate took the oath of office in the capital Libreville Wednesday, promising to devote her efforts to the good of the Gabonese people.
The new president vowed to respect the constitution and the rule of law, and to "conscientiously" carry out her duties by being fair to everyone.
The constitution gives Ms. Rogombe 45 days to organize presidential elections.
Possible candidates include Vice President Didjob Divungi Di Ndinge, Foreign Minister Paul Toungui and the late president's son, Defense Minister Ali Ben Bongo.
Mr. Bongo died Monday, after tightly ruling the central African nation for more than 40 years.
His body is to be flown back to Gabon on Thursday. His burial is scheduled for June 18 in the western Gabonese town of Franceville, his native area.
The nation is observing 30 days of mourning.
Some information for this report was provided by AFP and AP.
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