Military Coup In Gabon: What You Need To Know

Snapshot: Gabon’s Political Turmoil

Meet Ali Bongo, the just-ousted president of Gabon. After suffering a stroke in 2018, he was bedridden for almost a year and has never fully regained his health. His family’s grip on Gabon’s political reins has spanned an astonishing 56 years.

Did You Know? Gabon’s ousted President Ali Bongo once imported fake snow to the Presidential Palace, ensuring his family could revel in a snowy Christmas.

A Legacy of Power

Gabon’s political landscape has long been dominated by the Bongo family. Ali’s father, Omar Bongo, ruled for 42 years, from 1967 to 2009. Under his rule, Gabon saw both economic growth and allegations of corruption.

Omar Bongo’s French Assets: 70 bank accounts, 39 apartments, 2 Ferraris, 6 Mercedes Benz cars, 3 Porsches, and a Bugatti.

The Coup: A Timeline

1. Disputed Electoral Results: The announcement of contested electoral results sows discord.
2. Military Intervention: The Gabonese army seizes control, calling for the dissolution of all institutions.
3. Opposition Outcry: Claims of a fraudulent election circulate.
4. Unrest in Libreville: Reports of gunfire emerge from the capital.
5. Military’s Claim: Officers argue the election lacked credibility, accusing President Ali Bongo and his allies of manipulation.

Gabon’s Economic Paradox

Despite its vast reserves of uranium, oil, and gas, Gabon grapples with economic disparities. With a population of just 2.4 million, a staggering 33.4% live in poverty.

A Point to Ponder: By a serendipitous twist, Gabon, a former French colony, is endowed with reserves of uranium, oil, and gas. Yet, its wealth doesn’t reflect in the lives of its citizens.

Military Coups: A Recurring Theme in Africa

The recent events in Gabon are not isolated. Military coups have been a recurring theme across the African continent, reflecting political instability and often, the struggle for resources.

Here’s a bar chart visualizing the African countries that have experienced coups in the past 18 months:

Each bar represents a country that has experienced a coup, and all the countries listed have had one coup in the given timeframe.

What Lies Ahead for Gabon?

With the country’s borders sealed and the current government dissolved, Gabon stands at a crossroads. The international community watches closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution and a brighter future for its citizens.

Stay updated with the latest developments on this story and more at MandyNews.