Amid global concern, the U.S. strongly condemns the recent military coup in Gabon that has placed President Ali Bongo Ondimba under house arrest, calling for the restoration of civilian rule and respect for human rights.
"The United States is deeply concerned by evolving events in Gabon," Matthew Miller, U.S. State Department spokesman, said.
Gabon, a Central African nation, is in political turmoil after mutinous soldiers staged a coup that has led to the house arrest of its recently re-elected President, Ali Bongo Ondimba. The coup leaders announced Gen. Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, previously the republican guard's chief and a cousin of Bongo, as the country’s new leader on state television on August 30. This development has prompted widespread international condemnation and raised concerns about political stability not only in Gabon but across the African continent.
According to AP News, the public in Gabon's capital has largely celebrated the coup, although there are mounting concerns about potential instability. Ondimba, who had ruled since 2009 following his father’s 41-year reign, faced significant public discontent and allegations of corruption.
Miller issued a stern statement yesterday: “We remain strongly opposed to military seizures or unconstitutional transfers of power." Miller further urged the immediate release and safety of government members and their families while calling for the preservation of civilian rule. He also expressed concerns about the "lack of transparency and reports of irregularities surrounding the election."
As AP News reported, international analysts have warned that this abrupt change in power could lead to instability, suggesting it may be motivated more by elite divisions rather than efforts aimed at improving the lives of ordinary Gabonese citizens. This comes as the latest in a string of military takeovers in West and Central Africa, triggering fears of increasing instability across the region.
Both the United Nations Secretary-General and the French government have also condemned the military takeover in Gabon. AP News also reported that a curfew has been imposed from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. local time, although daytime movement is still permitted.
