“Karles Stecy Akué Angoué: a tragic death that shakes Gabon”
On the night of October 12 to 13, 2023, a tragedy struck Gabon, causing deep emotion among the population. Karles Stecy Akué Angoué, aged only 30, lost his life during an incident in a bar. Soldiers, responsible for enforcing the curfew in place since the August 30 coup, are accused of violently attacking bar customers who did not respect the restriction measure. Several people were injured, but it was the tragic death of Karles Stecy Akué Angoué that particularly shocked the country.
The affair quickly sparked a strong reaction from the Ministry of Defense and the National Council of Civil Society. General Félicien Koyi, chief of staff of the Ministry of Defense, affirmed that if the facts are proven and that these are indeed soldiers responsible, the latter will be held responsible for their actions in accordance with the laws in force. However, he also called for calm and restraint.
For its part, the National Council of Civil Society, represented by its vice-president, Jeanne Clarisse Dilaba, expressed its anger and incomprehension in the face of such violence. She emphasizes that these actions are reminiscent of the practices of the previous regime and that this should not be tolerated. She calls for measures to be taken to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice and that this type of incident does not happen again.
The family of Karles Stecy Akué Angoué, for their part, is demanding a thorough investigation and the truth into the circumstances of his death. She said the remains of their loved one would remain at the Libreville University Hospital until justice was served. This delicate affair is considered a test for the government, which will have to demonstrate its desire to fight against impunity and guarantee the security of the population.
This tragedy highlights the challenges Gabon faces in its post-coup transition. It is essential that concrete measures are taken to ensure the protection of citizens’ rights and prevent further violations. The country must demonstrate transparency and efficiency in the investigations carried out in order to provide a fair and equitable response to this matter.
The death of Karles Stecy Akué Angoué must not be forgotten. It must serve as a constant reminder to prevent any form of abuse of power and gratuitous violence. Justice must be done, not only for the victims of this incident, but also for the construction of a more just future that respects the rights of all Gabonese people.