Title: “Ali Bongo’s detention conditions called into question: forced exile?”
Introduction :
Since the coup d’état in Gabon three months ago, former president Ali Bongo has remained in his residence in La Sablière, but many doubts hover over his real freedom. While the new power claims that he is free to move, some close to him say his situation is more like disguised detention. In this article, we delve into the conflicting information and divergent testimonies to try to understand the reality of Ali Bongo’s detention conditions.
A restricted living environment:
According to several sources, Ali Bongo’s residence is surrounded by tanks and his exit into the garden is limited. In addition, a Republican Guard is always present to monitor his remarks. These increased security measures raise questions about the former president’s freedom of movement. In addition, it appears that Ali Bongo does not have access to his phone, his bank accounts are frozen and he is having difficulty paying his electricity bills. Those around him even fear an imminent power cut.
A restricted circle of collaborators:
According to testimonies, only a few collaborators still have access to Ali Bongo. Entrances and exits are controlled by the military, which makes it difficult for politicians from his party, the CEO, to visit. Even his family can no longer visit him normally; his daughter and sister have been banned from entering his residence. These restrictions reinforce the idea that the former president is indeed detained, although those in power deny these allegations.
Official visits, but is it a “show”?
Some high dignitaries were able to pay official visits to Ali Bongo, notably Central African President Faustin Archange Touadéra and the Secretary General of the OIF, Louise Mushikiwabo. However, some believe that these visits have a high-profile nature, with the aim of giving an image of normality. It is also interesting to note that Ali Bongo was reportedly offered to go into exile, but he refused, thus testifying to his solidity and his desire to stay in Gabon with his family.
Conclusion :
The conditions of Ali Bongo’s detention arouse controversy, between the declarations of the new power affirming his freedom of movement and the testimonies of his relatives indicating disguised detention. The reality remains unclear and only a thorough investigation can determine the truth. In the meantime, Ali Bongo’s situation illustrates the difficulties that former heads of state can face when they find themselves in a period of delicate political transition.