NEWS DIGEST- The Gabonese military junta has decided to release former President Ali Bongo from detention, according to the BBC. Bongo was previously under house arrest, but the junta has cited his state of health as the reason for his release.
The military spokesperson, Col Ulrich Manfoumbi, stated in a communique on state TV that Bongo is now free to move about and can even travel abroad for medical check-ups if he wishes.
This decision comes after pressure from the Central African regional bloc Eccas and Gabon’s neighboring countries, who urged the junta to respect the ousted president’s physical integrity. Concerns about Bongo’s health were particularly significant leading up to the 2023 presidential election.
The Nation reported that a group of high-ranking Gabonese soldiers appeared on national television, announcing their seizure of power just moments after the state election body declared Bongo as the winner of a third term.
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These officers, representing all security and defense forces in the country, canceled the election results, closed all borders indefinitely, and dissolved state institutions. In a joint statement read by one officer on Gabon 24 channel, they stated that they took this action in the name of the Gabonese people to defend peace and put an end to the current regime.
Shortly after, General Brice Oligui Nguema was inaugurated as the interim president. However, he did not provide a timeline for relinquishing power. During his inauguration speech, Gen Nguema expressed defiance, stating that this “patriotic action” would become a lesson taught in schools. He also announced that a new government would be formed in the coming days and recommended new electoral legislation, a revised penal code, and a referendum for a new constitution.
Furthermore, Gen Nguema instructed the new government to prioritize the release of all political prisoners. The inauguration ceremony was broadcast live on Gabonese TV and various online platforms.
