Ali Bongo Ondimba is now free to move about. This announcement was made on Wednesday, September 6th, 2023, in a statement released by the Committee for Transition and Restoration of Institutions (CTRI).
After being placed under house arrest for a few days following the coup d’état, Ali Bongo Ondimba is now free, “taking into consideration his health condition.” According to the spokesperson of the coup leaders, the former president of Gabon can “if he wishes, travel abroad to undergo medical checks,” as stated by the spokesperson of the junta.
In the early hours of the coup, the rebels had announced that former president Ali Bongo Ondimba was being kept under house arrest with his family and was being attended to by his doctors.
A few hours after the junta’s declaration, Ali Bongo Ondimba appeared in a short video where he denounced his arrest. He called on his supporters and followers to protest against the coup d’état that he had just fallen victim to. However, his call seems to have gone unheard as no protests were observed within the country.
The end of a 56-year reign
Ali Bongo Ondimba was about to seek a third term when the coup d’état took place. He had been declared the winner of the August 2023 presidential election under controversial circumstances. This led the military to seize power and annul the election results.
This event, which will mark the political history of Gabon, has put an end to the reign of the Bongo family. A dynasty that lasted 56 years, from father to son.
Now, General Brice Oligui Nguema is leading the country. Although he is suspected of being in cahoots with the Bongo family, of which he is close, his takeover signifies a new era for the people of Gabon.
