Gabon military coup has caught many by surprise and concern throughout the international community. As news of the coup spread, the world’s attention turned to the unfolding situation in the Central African nation. The coup has not only raised questions about Gabon’s stability but has also prompted global worries about the implications for democracy, security, and stability in the region.
GABON’S HISTORY –
original inhabitants of the Gabon were pygmy peoples .The Pygmy peoples in the region were gradually replaced and absorbed by migrating Bantu tribes. By the 18th century, a Myeni-speaking kingdom, the Kingdom of Orungu, emerged as a trading hub involved in slave trading, but it declined after the slave trade ended in the 1870s.
Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza explored the Gabon-Congo area in 1875 and later became its colonial governor and it was officially occupied by France in 1885.
In 1910, Gabon became part of French Equatorial Africa, a federation that lasted until 1958. During World War II, the Allies invaded Gabon to remove the pro-Vichy France colonial administration. Gabon gained autonomy within the French Community on November 28, 1958, and achieved full independence on August 17, 1960.
GABON’S POLITICS –
After independence, Gabon established a presidential system of government. Léon M’ba became the first President of Gabon, and his rule marked the early years of the nation’s political scene. During this time, Gabon focused on building its institutions and establishing itself on the international stage.
In 1967, Léon M’ba passed away, and Omar Bongo took over as the new President. Bongo’s presidency was characterized by stability and a focus on economic development. He maintained a relatively calm political environment by promoting a single-party system under the Gabonese Democratic Party (PDG). However, this era also saw concerns about corruption and the concentration of power.
Amidst growing pressure for political change, Gabon introduced multi-party politics in the early 1990s. This led to the establishment of a multi-party system and the end of the PDG’s monopoly on power. In 1993, Bongo won the first multi-party presidential elections and was reelected in subsequent elections.
Omar Bongo’s long presidency, lasting over four decades, came to an end in 2009 when he passed away. His son, Ali Bongo Ondimba, succeeded him as President after winning a contested election.
Ali Bongo’s presidency faced challenges, including protests and calls for more political transparency. In 2018, he survived an attempted coup.
THE MILITARY COUP- OVERTHROW OF THE “BONGO DYNASTY”
Mutinous soldiers in Gabon attempted a coup, claiming President Ali Bongo Ondimba is under house arrest after an election. They shared this on TV, mentioning others in the government were arrested too. The coup happened Wednesday, following election results saying Ondimba would stay in power, continuing the family’s 55-year rule.
Earlier that Wednesday, the soldiers said they were overturning the presidential election results. The election committee announced Bongo’s victory with 64% of votes. Soon after, gunshots were heard in the capital, Libreville. A group of soldiers appeared on TV, saying they took control of power.
Soldiers in Gabon declared their leader after putting President Ali Bongo Ondimba under house arrest due to alleged betrayal and embezzlement during his rule. They named Gen. Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema as head of a transitional committee on state TV. Oligui is Bongo’s cousin, and Bongo had just been re-elected after 55 years of his family’s rule.
In a video from his home, Bongo asked for support, but people in the capital celebrated the coup against a dynasty accused of benefiting from the country’s resources while many citizens face difficulties.
IS GABON FOLLOWING THE “SAHEL” PATTERN?
The recent military coup has raised serious questions about the Africa’s stability. While specific details may vary depending on the country, a common thread runs through these incidents: dissatisfaction with government leadership. Many coup leaders claim that governments have failed to effectively address issues like poverty, corruption, and security threats, leading them to take matters into their own hands.
what lies ahead?
The recent military coup in Gabon serves as a stark reminder of the intricate challenges faced by the nation. It underscores the need for holistic approaches that address not only political turmoil but also the socio-economic and security concerns that contribute to instability. As the country navigates this complex landscape, cooperation within africa and with the international community will be essential to foster lasting peace and prosperity.
http://Reuters www.reuters.com Gabon officers declare military coup, President Ali Bongo detained
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Well researched article
THANKYOU!
Very informative !
thankyou!