Gabon’s Military says deposed President Ali Bongo ‘free’ to travel abroad

Gabon’s military leadership has announced the release of deposed President Ali Bongo from house arrest, where he had been held since their takeover of power last week. This release includes granting him permission to travel abroad for medical examinations. President Bongo’s health had been a significant concern, especially in the lead-up to the 2023 presidential election, as he had suffered a stroke in 2018.

The military assumed control shortly after President Bongo was declared the winner of the disputed election, a move contested by the opposition. The decision to release Mr. Bongo came in response to pressure from the regional bloc ECOWAS and neighboring nations.

In a statement broadcast on state television on Wednesday evening, military spokesperson Colonel Ulrich Manfoumbi cited “his state of health” as the reason for Mr. Bongo’s release and added that he could choose to travel abroad for medical check-ups. Ali Bongo had held power in the oil-rich nation since 2009, succeeding his father, who had ruled for 41 years.

The coup has faced widespread condemnation in Africa and the West, with France, the former colonial power with close ties to the Bongo family, expressing disapproval. Gabon has been suspended from the African Union.

Following the coup, President Bongo managed to release a video message, urging supporters worldwide to raise their voices. General Brice Oligui Nguema, the coup leader, was sworn in as the transitional president on Monday, promising a return to civilian rule through free and fair elections but without specifying a timetable for the transition of power.

The junta also released other political prisoners, including prominent pro-democracy activist and leader of the most influential trade union confederation, Jean Rémi Yama, earlier in the week.

Credit: BBC Africa