Leader of coup in Gabon promises free and fair elections, but no time frame

The leader of Gabon’s military junta has promised to give power back to regular people after “fair, clear” elections.

However, when he gave a speech after becoming the temporary president, he didn’t say when military rule would stop.

Gen Brice Nguema led a recent coup against Ali Bongo, removing him as president soon after he was declared the winner of a controversial election.

Many people who were excited for change came to the inauguration and cheered. They were happy about the coup.

But some people say that Gen Nguema’s rule will just be a continuation of the Bongo dynasty, which has been going on for 55 years.

Ali Bongo’s dad, Omar, ruled for 41 years until he passed away in 2009. Afterwards, his son took over.

The general worked closely with Ali Bongo for most of his career and it is believed that they are cousins.


During the inauguration on Monday, Gen Nguema gave a strong speech, mentioning influential figures like South African Archbishop Desmond Tutu, French statesman Charles de Gaulle, and former Ghanaian leader Jerry Rawlings.

“The new president, wearing a special red outfit, said that this patriotic action will be a lesson that will be taught in our schools. ”

He said that a new government will be created soon and suggested new laws for elections, a new set of rules for punishment, and a public vote on a new constitution.

Gen Nguema also mentioned that he told the new government to quickly consider releasing all political prisoners.

The event was shown live on TV in Gabon and on the internet.

Ex-government ministers who used to work in the previous government came, but a group of people who support the current military rulers made loud disapproving sounds at them.

General Nguema’s inauguration is the most recent in a line of military takeovers happening in West and Central Africa.

Gabon is now being ruled by the military, making it the sixth French-speaking country to experience this in the past three years. This is happening because France, who used to control Gabon, is finding it difficult to keep its power and influence in Africa.

The African Union has stopped Gabon’s membership because of the coup. The United Nations and France have criticized the coup.