Mutinous soldiers in Gabon have declared their republican guard chief as the country’s leader on Wednesday, August 30th. The coup leaders announced on Gabon’s state TV that General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema had been unanimously chosen as the president of a transitional committee to lead the nation. Oligui is a cousin of Bongo.
In a video from his residence, Ali Bongo urged people to “make noise” to support him. However, instead of support, crowds took to the streets of the capital to celebrate the coup against a dynasty accused of profiting from the country’s resources while many citizens struggled.
Yollande, in front of republican guard members who aided in the takeover, expressed gratitude, saying, “Thank you, army. Finally, we’ve been waiting a long time for this moment.”
The coup leaders have extended the night-time curfew implemented after the August 26th election. Gabonese citizens are now restricted from moving freely between 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. The previous curfew was in effect from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Lt. Col. Ulrich Manfoumbi stated on state TV that the president of the transition emphasised the need to maintain calm and serenity in the country during this new era.
Oligui, the new military leader, previously served as the bodyguard of Bongo’s father, late President Omar Bongo. Oligui also held the position of head of the secret service in 2019 before becoming the head of the republican guard.
Ali Bongo Ondimba, 64, has been in power since 2009, succeeding his father, who ruled the country for 41 years. Widespread discontent with his rule has been evident. Another group of mutinous soldiers attempted a coup in 2019 but was swiftly overpowered.
The former French colony, a member of OPEC, has concentrated oil wealth and high youth unemployment. In 2022, oil export revenue was $6 billion. Additionally, nine members of the Bongo family are under investigation in France for embezzlement and corruption.
The coup leaders criticised Bongo’s governance, stating it risked leading the country into chaos. The Bongo family has faced accusations of misappropriation of state revenues.
In recent elections, Bongo faced opposition led by Albert Ondo Ossa. After Bongo was declared the winner, uniformed soldiers announced the coup on state television.
International reactions have been mixed, with the African Union Commission condemning the coup and China urging dialogue. The White House expressed concern, while Nigeria’s President mentioned the spread of autocracy.
France, with economic and military ties to Gabon, condemned the coup. The situation is being closely monitored by various nations.
Unlike some West African countries, Gabon has remained relatively stable despite the coup’s potential impact on the economy and stability.