August 30, 2023 will remain marked as a historic date for Gabon, as Ali Bongo, who governed the country for 14 years, was ousted from power. This dismissal puts an end to nearly 60 years of rule by the Bongo family over the country.
It was the Gabonese army which announced that it had taken control of the country and had put an end to what can be described as the “Bongo dynasty”. The president of the national assembly and other dignitaries were also arrested.
According to the soldiers behind the coup, their action was motivated by the poor governance that was plaguing the country and the deterioration of social cohesion, which threatened to plunge Gabon into decline. They also declared that the results of the August 26 elections, which gave Ali Bongo the winner, were annulled, and announced the dissolution of all the country’s institutions.
This coup was carried out by members of the Republican Guard and the regular army, as well as police officers. The country’s borders have been closed until further notice, and the country is currently in a period of transition and restoration of institutions.
This ousting of Ali Bongo from power in Gabon marks a turning point in the political history of the country. The coming months will be crucial in determining the political future and the transition process that Gabon will experience. It is important to closely monitor developments in this Central African country. Let’s stay attentive to the news to see how this new political situation will develop and what the impacts will be on regional stability.