Gabon’s military leaders say they have freed deposed President Ali Bongo from house arrest. Bongo has been detained in his house ever since the military seized power last week.
This includes permission to travel abroad for medical check-ups.
Bongo suffered a stroke in 2018. His health was a major source of concern for many in the build-up to the 2023 presidential election.
The army seized power shortly after he was declared the winner of that election, which was disputed by the opposition.
In a communique read on state TV on Wednesday evening, military spokesperson Col Ulrich Manfoumbi said the decision to free Mr. Bongo was due to “his state of health”.
“He may, if he wishes, travel abroad for medical check-ups,” he added.
Mr Bongo had been in power in the oil-rich country since 2009. He ascended to power when he succeeded his father who had ruled the country for 41 years.
‘Make noise’
Gabon became independent from France on 17 August 1960 (63 years ago). Except for its first president, Leon M’ba Minko (1960-1967), the Bongo family has governed the country for 56 years.
The coup has been widely condemned in Africa and the West, including by France, the former colonial power which had close ties to the Bongo family. Gabon has also been suspended from the African Union.
Shortly after the coup, Mr. Bongo managed to release a video calling on supporters around the world to “make noise“.
Coup leader Gen Brice Oligui Nguema was sworn in as transitional president on Monday. He vowed to return the country to civilian rule after free and fair elections. He however did not give a timetable for the transfer of power.
The junta released other political prisoners, including pro-democracy activist and leader of the most powerful trade union confederation, Jean Rémi Yama, earlier this week.
