In many French African countries, there exist elite forces known as the presidential or republican guard, entrusted with the duty of safeguarding the president and their family. Governments in West and Central Africa often appoint the most trusted generals to lead these units, as they play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of the head of state.
However, recent waves of coups across West Africa, which have also affected Central Africa, have highlighted a concerning trend where leaders of these elite units have turned against the very individuals they were supposed to protect. Three such instances have occurred in recent years, with the most recent taking place in Gabon.
General Brice Oligui Nguema:
Brice Clothaire Oligui Nguema, the commander-in-chief of the Gabonese Republican Guard, which is the country’s most powerful security unit, emerged as the leader of the military junta that ousted President Ali Bongo Ondimba on August 30, 2023. This swift shift from electoral results to military intervention saw Nguema, who is a cousin of Bongo, leading the charge in overturning the election outcome.
Nguema’s influence and role in Gabon’s affairs have been characterized by a unique blend of military expertise, diplomatic endeavors, and entrepreneurial ventures. He was raised in a military family and pursued his education at the Royal Military Academy of Meknes in Morocco, where he refined his skills. He later served as an “aide-de-camp” to a commander within the Republican Guard during the tenure of former President Omar Bongo.
Abdourahmane Tchiani of Niger:
General Tchiani, aged 62, has been in charge of the presidential guard since 2011. This 700-strong force was established by the former president’s predecessor, Mahamadou Issoufou, with the aim of safeguarding against military takeovers. Tchiani was linked to a 2015 coup attempt against Mr. Issoufou, but a subsequent court case in 2018 cleared him of involvement. He was promoted to the rank of general in 2018 by Mr. Issoufou.
Before the military takeover, President Bazoum had planned to remove General Tchiani as part of changes he was implementing in the security forces, as reported by Niger’s private newspaper, L’Enqueteur.
Mamady Doumbouya of Guinea:
Mamady Doumbouya, a tall and stout French-trained soldier, had initially been entrusted with the leadership of the Special Presidential Guard under ousted President Alpha Conde. However, on September 25, 2021, during a coup in Conakry, Doumbouya emerged as the leader of the junta, despite his strong ties to Conde.
He was subsequently sworn in as the head of the transitional authority as consultations continue on the process of returning the country to constitutional rule. This transition has taken place amidst Guinea’s suspension from ECOWAS and the African Union, as well as sanctions imposed by the former.