In a significant turn of events, the Gabonese army officers, operating under the banner of the Committee for the Transition and Restoration of Institutions, have seized power in Gabon and ousted President Ali Bongo from office. In a broadcast on national television, the military officers explained the reasons behind their actions, citing serious institutional, political, economic, and social crises as the driving forces behind the coup. The junta emphasized that these crises were hindering the progress of the West African nation and necessitated their intervention.
According to PUNCH paper, the junta stated that despite Gabon’s historical reputation for being a haven of peace, the country had fallen into a state of turmoil due to various factors. They criticized the conduct of the general elections held on August 26, 2023, asserting that the elections did not meet the criteria for transparency, credibility, and inclusivity as desired by the Gabonese people. Furthermore, they expressed concern over what they termed as “irresponsible and unpredictable governance,” which had led to a deterioration in social cohesion and a looming risk of chaos within the country.
Taking these circumstances into account, the military committee, which claims to represent the people and safeguard institutions, declared their decision to put an end to the current regime. They cancelled the results of the August 26 elections, closed the country’s borders indefinitely, and dissolved all key institutions of the nation, including the Federal Government, the Senate, the National Assembly, the Constitutional Court, the Economic, Social and Environmental Council, and the Gabonese Elections Centre.
The junta concluded their message by urging calm and serenity among the populace and reiterated their commitment to honoring Gabon’s international obligations. They expressed hope for a brighter future for the country and invoked blessings from both divine forces and ancestral spirits for the nation.
As the situation continues to evolve, the global community closely watches the developments in Gabon and the potential consequences of the military’s takeover of power.
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