Gabon’s General Brice Oligui Nguema to be Sworn in as Transitional President After Military Coup on September 4th

Gabon’s Political Landscape in the Aftermath of a Military Coup

In the aftermath of a military coup that led to the ousting of President Ali Bongo Ondimba, Gabon finds itself at a crucial juncture in its political landscape. The coup was orchestrated by General Brice Oligui Nguema, who accused President Ali Bongo Ondimba’s camp of manipulating the results of the recently held presidential election. General Nguema has now been selected to serve as the transitional president, taking charge of steering the nation through this uncertain period.

Amid heightened tensions and the swift change in leadership, General Brice Oligui Nguema is set to officially assume the role of the “transitional president.” The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled to take place before the Constitutional Court on Monday, September 4, 2023. The announcement was made by Colonel Ulrich Manfoumbi Manfoumbi, the spokesperson for the Committee for the Transition and Restoration of Institutions (CTRI), a collective of military commanders.

The military coup marked a significant turning point in Gabonese politics. General Nguema, in addition to his ascension to power, has declared the gradual establishment of transitional institutions to facilitate a smoother transition. However, the specific duration of this transitional phase has not yet been disclosed. His actions also encompass a directive to various officials within the government machinery to ensure the swift resumption of work and the uninterrupted functioning of public services.

(Read Also: EU’s Concerns Deepen as Military Coups Shake Africa: A Call for Rethinking Training and Support)

Assurance of Commitments and International Relations

General Brice Oligui Nguema’s ascent to the role of transitional president comes with a pledge to uphold Gabon’s commitments, both on the international stage and domestically. In an address on state television, Colonel Manfoumbi Manfoumbi conveyed that the new transitional president seeks to reassure donors, development partners, and creditors of Gabon that every effort will be made to honor the nation’s obligations, both internally and externally.

As the nation navigates this transition, the spotlight remains on the implementation of transitional institutions and the preservation of stability during this critical phase. The political landscape of Gabon is in flux, and the decisions made by General Nguema and the transitional government will shape the country’s trajectory in the coming months and years.

(Read Also: General Nguema to be Sworn in as Gabon’s Transitional President)