Military officers in Gabon made a surprising announcement on national television, declaring that they were seizing power. This declaration came shortly after President Ali Bongo Ondimba was declared the winner of a contested election, extending his family’s long-standing rule over the country. The officers, claiming to represent “defense and security forces,” made their proclamation in a televised address on news channel Gabon24. The announcement was viewed by CNN on X, formerly known as Twitter. Despite CNN’s inability to independently confirm the video, the news triggered celebrations and reports of gunfire in the streets of the capital, Libreville, as people rejoiced at the news.
A Historic Moment in Gabon
The military officers, acting as the Committee for the Transition and Restoration of Institutions (CTRI), stated that they were defending peace by putting an end to the existing regime. They announced that all the institutions of the republic, including the government, the Senate, the National Assembly, the Constitutional Court, Economic and Social and Environmental Council, and the Elections Council of Gabon, were dissolved. Additionally, they declared that the election results would be voided and the country’s borders would be closed. Despite the uncertainty surrounding these claims, the Gabonese people were urged to remain calm during this transitional period.
Scenes of Celebration
Upon hearing the news of the military officers’ takeover, the streets of Gabon’s capital erupted in jubilation. Videos shared with CNN and posted on social media captured the joyous scenes of people dancing and celebrating throughout Libreville. In one particular video, individuals can be seen waving the Gabonese flag and shouting “liberated!” in the Nzeng Ayong district of the city. The atmosphere was electric, filled with a sense of renewed hope and the belief that change was finally on the horizon.
A Pattern of Military Coups
Gabon’s recent events are not isolated incidents in the region. In the past three years, five countries in western and central Africa, all of which were former French colonies, have experienced military takeovers. These coups in Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso, Chad, and Niger have hindered democratic progress and stability in the region. It is a concerning trend that undermines the aspirations of these nations to establish and uphold democratic values. Most recently, Niger’s military junta seized power, leading to the African Union suspending Niger’s membership among its 55 member states. However, the military ruler of Niger has expressed intentions to restore democracy within three years.
Ali Bongo’s Long Rule
Gabon has been ruled by the Bongo family for over half a century. Ali Bongo Ondimba, the son of former President Omar Bongo, succeeded his father in 2009 after his demise. Omar Bongo, who came to power in 1967, maintained a firm grip on the nation. Initially, Gabon operated under a one-party system, which only transitioned to a multi-party rule in 1991. However, Omar Bongo’s party still maintained significant control over the government. Ali Bongo himself began his political career in 1981 as the foreign minister and later served as a congressman from 1989 to 1991. He assumed the position of defense minister in 1999, ultimately becoming the president of Gabon in 2009.
Disputed Election Results
The recent presidential election in Gabon was hotly contested and marred by allegations of electoral irregularities. Despite the efforts of 18 challengers, Ali Bongo emerged as the winner with 64.27% of the vote, according to the election body. His main contender, Albert Ondo Ossa, secured second place with 30.77%. The opposition, however, criticized the election as fraudulent and demanded change in the oil-rich but poverty-stricken nation of 2.3 million. Concerns over transparency were expressed by international observers, and the Gabonese government was rebuked by Reporters Without Borders for hindering foreign press coverage during the election process.
International Reactions and Historical Struggles
The situation in Gabon has raised alarm bells internationally. Josep Borrell, the EU’s foreign policy chief, stated that if the military coup were confirmed, it would exacerbate instability in the region. The situation in Gabon is part of a broader pattern of political upheaval in neighboring countries such as Mali, the Central African Republic, Burkina Faso, Niger, and others. French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne acknowledged that France was closely monitoring the developments in Gabon. The country has a history of power struggles and unrest during Ali Bongo’s rule. In 2016, violent street protests erupted, leading to the torching of the parliament building. Additionally, a coup attempt took place in 2019 but was swiftly quelled by Gabonese defense and security forces.
As the celebrations continue in the streets of Gabon, the future remains uncertain. The military officers’ seizure of power represents a significant turning point in the country’s history. Nonetheless, this event adds another chapter to the ongoing struggles for democratic progress in the region. As the nation adapts to this new reality, it is essential to foster a nuanced understanding of the circumstances surrounding the military takeover while hoping for a peaceful and democratic transition in Gabon.
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