The EU does not yet have confirmation of a military coup in Gabon, but if these reports are confirmed, the situation in the country will be discussed by European foreign ministers in Toledo on August 31st. This was stated by the EU’s chief diplomat, Josep Borrell.
“I only learned this news early this morning, it’s too confusing at the moment. If these reports are confirmed, it is a new military coup that increases instability across the region. If these reports are confirmed, I will submit them for discussions by the foreign ministers [on August 31st],” he noted.
The Gabonese military has announced that they have taken control of the country, dissolved all state institutions, and established a Transitional and Restoration Committee for Institutions. This was reported by Gabon 24 television.
“Today, we, the defense and security forces gathered within the Transitional and Restoration Committee for Institutions, have decided, on behalf of the Gabonese people, to defend peace by ending the current regime,” they stated. “To this effect, the elections of August 26, along with their preliminary results, are annulled. The borders are closed until further notice, and all institutions of the country are dissolved.” The Gabon 24 television studio is located within the Gabonese presidential administration buildings.
Meanwhile, Reuters has reported that gunshots were heard in Libreville, the capital of Gabon.
The military declaration came hours after the electoral commission officially announced the victory of Ali Bongo Ondimba in the August 26 presidential election, with 64.27% of the votes. He was reelected for a third term.
The current whereabouts of the president are unknown. The authorities have not yet made an official statement.
