A military junta has taken power in Gabon, annulling the results of the recent general election and declaring the end of the regime of President Ali Bongo Ondimba.
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A dozen members of the junta, led by General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, a former presidential supporter, made the announcement in the early morning of August 30. They said they had taken action to “defend peace” and “restore order” in the country.
The junta has closed the borders and imposed a curfew. It has also dissolved the government and parliament.
The coup comes after Bongo was declared the winner of the August 26 election, despite widespread allegations of fraud. The opposition has rejected the results and called for fresh elections.
The junta has not yet said what its plans are for the future of Gabon. However, it has promised to hold a “transparent and inclusive” transition process.
The coup is the latest in a series of political upheavals in Gabon. The country has been ruled by the Bongo family for over 50 years. Ali Bongo Ondimba took power in 2009 following the death of his father, Omar Bongo.
The coup has been met with mixed reactions in Gabon. Some people have welcomed the change of power, while others have expressed concern about the potential for violence.
The international community has also condemned the coup. The United Nations, the African Union, and the European Union have all called for a return to democracy in Gabon.
It remains to be seen how the coup will unfold. However, it is clear that Gabon is facing a serious political crisis.