“Coup d’état in Gabon: The challenges of the political transition”
The coup d’état that occurred in Gabon on August 30 raised many questions about the political future of the country. While General Oligui Nguema claims this coup as an act of freedom for the Gabonese people, it is essential to look at the issues of this political transition.
First of all, it is important to emphasize that this coup d’état is the result of a long frustration of the Gabonese people with a presidential family that had been in power for 56 years. The Bongos, who succeeded one another at the head of the country, were accused of wanting to stay in power despite the elections. Thus, for many Gabonese people, this coup represents a break with a political system that refused to cede power.
General Oligui Nguema, who took charge of the transition, says he wants to organize free elections in the near future. However, the deadlines are not specified, which raises concerns about the duration of this political transition. In this regard, Gabonese civil society believes that a period of six months to one year would be sufficient to restore constitutional order.
However, there are fears that the ruling military will seek to prolong its presence. The examples of other African countries where the military has refused to leave power do not reassure observers. However, Gabonese civil society hopes that the Gabonese military will demonstrate responsibility and willingness to cede power to civilians as quickly as possible.
Another question emerges: that of the candidacy of General Oligui Nguema in the next presidential election. According to the transition charter, no actor in the transition can be a candidate, except the leader of the transition. The decision will therefore be up to the Gabonese during the national conference, but General Oligui Nguema has already expressed his interpretation of the charter, indicating that he could present himself at the end of the transition. This situation raises concerns about the independence and neutrality of the political transition.
Finally, the current transition could also be an opportunity to shed light on the tragic events which followed the 2016 presidential election and which were marked by violent repression. The truth about these events, which reportedly left nearly 300 dead, remains obscure. Civil society hopes that the transition will shed light on these events and guarantee justice for the victims.
In conclusion, the political situation in Gabon following the August 30 coup d’état presents many challenges and issues. It is essential to guarantee a short and transparent political transition, while respecting democratic principles and human rights. Gabonese civil society will play an essential role in vigilance and citizen participation to ensure that this transition takes place in the interest of the Gabonese people.