The United States suspends its aid to Gabon following the coup: a symbolic decision with limited consequences
In an official announcement, the US State Department confirmed the suspension of most aid to the Gabonese government in response to the coup that toppled Ali Bongo Ondimba on August 30. However, humanitarian, health and education aid will not be affected by this decision.
This suspension results directly from the description of a “coup d’état” attributed to the takeover of power by the army. This legal qualification obliges the administration to take this measure, which comes after a first pause a month ago to allow an assessment of the situation.
In its statement, the State Department highlights its support for a sustainable transition to civilian governance in Gabon and recalls shared security interests in the Gulf of Guinea. He affirms that the resumption of aid will be considered when concrete actions have been taken to restore democracy.
It should be noted, however, that this decision by the United States is mainly symbolic, as its financial commitment to the country is limited. Indeed, humanitarian, health and education aid, which is not suspended, represents the majority of aid provided by the United States to Gabon. Consequently, the direct consequences of this suspension will be limited.
Interestingly, Judd Devermont, special advisor to US President Joe Biden, recently visited Gabon to meet with General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, who is now leading the country after the coup, as well as Prime Minister Raymond Ndong Sima. During this meeting, Devermont expressed the desire of the United States to strengthen its partnership with Gabon once power is returned to civilians. The leader of the Gabonese transition also affirmed his intention to organize democratic elections in the future.
In conclusion, the suspension of aid to Gabon by the United States following the coup is a symbolic decision that has limited consequences. Although this sends a strong message regarding respect for democracy, humanitarian aid and social areas will be maintained, limiting the direct impact of the suspension. It remains to be seen how this measure will influence the transition to civilian governance in Gabon and whether other countries will follow the American example in their response to this event.