Gabon Coup Unfolds: President Under House Arrest as Soldiers Annul Election
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Latest Updates on Gabon Coup in the Capital, Libreville
Gabon, an African nation that recently held presidential elections, is facing a crisis as a group of twelve mutinous soldiers took to national television to declare the cancellation of recent election results and the dissolution of “all the institutions of the republic.” This bold announcement followed the re-election of President Ali Bongo Ondimba for a third term, an election that the opposition has vehemently criticized as a ‘fraud orchestrated’ by the ruling party.
Concerns Raised by the Commonwealth
The Commonwealth, a group that Gabon joined last year along with Togo, another former French colony, has expressed deep concerns about the military coup unfolding in Gabon. Secretary-General Patricia Scotland has stated that the situation is “deeply concerning,” and the Commonwealth is closely monitoring the situation. She emphasized that the Commonwealth Charter unequivocally asserts that member states must uphold the rule of law and the principles of democracy at all times.
A History of Coups in Africa
The continent of Africa has witnessed a significant number of attempted or successful military coups since 1950. Out of a total of 486 such coups globally, Africa has accounted for the largest share with 214, of which at least 106 have succeeded. According to data compiled by American researchers Jonathan M. Powell and Clayton L. Thyne, nearly 45 out of the 54 African nations have experienced at least one coup attempt since 1950.
Assala Energy’s Assurance on Gabonese Oil Production
Despite the ongoing military coup in Gabon, Assala Energy, an oil producer in the country, has reported that its oil production remains unaffected. A spokesperson for the company affirmed that all their personnel are safe, operations continue as usual, and production levels remain stable. Gabon, as the second-smallest OPEC producer, contributes about 200,000 barrels per day (bpd) of crude oil to the global market.
Uncertainty Surrounding the Fate of President Bongo
Coup leader Brice Oligui Nguema, speaking to the French newspaper Le Monde, stated that President Ali Bongo Ondimba, who has been placed under house arrest by the military, will “enjoy all his rights.” Nguema emphasized that Bongo is a Gabonese citizen, now retired, and that he will be treated as such. However, he did not confirm whether he intends to declare himself as the new president of Gabon, leaving the situation open to negotiation.
A New Wave of Change: “Francophone Spring”
Analysts like Michael Amoah, a senior visiting fellow at the London School of Economics, have observed a growing sentiment among people in former French colonies in Africa who are weary of leaders clinging to power. Amoah describes this phenomenon as a “Francophone Spring,” drawing parallels to the Arab Spring, whereby anti-government sentiment is spreading across Francophone African nations.
He notes that apart from Uganda and Equatorial Guinea, nearly every country where presidential term extensions have occurred is Francophone. Many of these leaders have maintained their rule for extended periods, with Cameroon’s leader having held power for 41 years and counting. The people of these nations are increasingly demanding change and democratic reforms.
