Unveiling Allegations and Turmoil After Forgotten Coup in Gabon
A significant strain in the Franco-Gabonese relationship emerged in 2019, when a seven-year-long corruption investigation conducted by French authorities uncovered substantial assets linked to the Bongo family in France, including numerous properties and luxury cars.
The United States has suspended most financial assistance to the central African country of Gabon in response to August’s military takeover. This is the latest news on Gabon after the coup.
“The United States has concluded that a military coup d’état has taken place in Gabon,” State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said in a statement released Monday. Miller said the aid had been temporarily paused since Sept. 26. Miller said all “humanitarian, health, and education assistance” to Gabon will continue.
A group of army officers led by General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, chief of the Republican Guard, placed President Ali Bongo under house arrest on Aug, 30 and seized power. General Nguema was designated president of a committee aimed at eventually returning power to a civilian government.
What happened in Gabon
Gabon, a nation historically ruled by the Ondimba family, has witnessed a recent military coup that resulted in the overthrow of President Ali Bongo Ondimba. This change in leadership was executed by military officials who seized control and placed the president under house arrest. The dramatic events unfolded on the night of August 30, 2023, shortly after Ali Bongo's victory in the presidential election, securing him a third consecutive term. The situation within Gabon remains tumultuous as the military assumes authority over the country.
Johan Chairil
Ali Bongo Ondimba, the former president, had previously held power for three terms, continuing his family's long-standing dominance. Following the coup, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema was appointed to lead a transitional committee as the country's new president.
The catalyst for the military intervention was rooted in allegations of corruption against Ali Bongo Ondimba. The accusations are multifaceted, with one prominent issue being election fraud. The ousted president faced claims of orchestrating fraudulent activities within his camp during the election, suggesting manipulation of the electoral process to secure his triumph.
Corruption
Corruption charges further contributed to the coup. The military accused Ali Bongo Ondimba of engaging in corrupt practices, potentially involving the misappropriation of public funds or embezzlement. While specific details of these allegations remain elusive, they paint a picture of a leadership marred by unethical conduct.
During Ali Bongo's presidency, Gabon's relationship with France experienced both periods of close cooperation and instances of distancing. In 2009, upon assuming power, Bongo recalled the Gabonese ambassador to France and accused the former colonial power of interfering in domestic Gabonese affairs. This marked a shift in the Franco-Gabonese relationship, although the nations continued to collaborate.
A significant strain in the Franco-Gabonese relationship emerged in 2019, when a seven-year-long corruption investigation conducted by French authorities uncovered substantial assets linked to the Bongo family in France, including numerous properties and luxury cars. This investigation exacerbated tensions between the two countries. Despite these challenges, France has remained a crucial partner for Gabon, particularly due to Gabon's status as an oil-rich nation. Historically, under Ali Bongo's father, Omar Bongo, Gabon played a pivotal role in the "Françafrique" system, where France provided political and economic support to African leaders in exchange for resource access.
The French Connection
Reacting to the ongoing situation, French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne expressed France's vigilant monitoring of the unfolding coup in Gabon. France has unequivocally condemned the military intervention and is closely observing developments. The coup introduces a cloud of uncertainty over France's regional presence and puts the relationship between Gabon and France to the test. Approximately 350 French troops are stationed in Gabon, making the situation even more complex.
Gabon's recent military coup has toppled long-standing president Ali Bongo Ondimba, who faced allegations of corruption and election fraud. This coup has not only disrupted Gabon's political landscape but has also strained its relationship with France, a significant partner. As both nations navigate these unprecedented circumstances, the region watches closely to see how the situation evolves.