Africa
Gabon Military Announces Election Cancellation, Ends Regime In Political Shift
The concerns over violence prior to the elections stem from deep-seated grievances among Gabon’s population
In a surprising turn of events, the Gabonese army declared on Wednesday (Aug. 30) that it had successfully toppled the regime of [Bongo]. Addressing the nation via a televised broadcast, soldiers from various security factions, including the gendarme and the republican guard, conveyed their decision to end the current administration.
Reports of heavy automatic weapons fire in the capital, Libreville, have been confirmed by witnesses, highlighting the intensity of the situation. The military leaders initiated their announcement by acknowledging the dire political crisis gripping the nation. They cited a pattern of irresponsible governance that had eroded social cohesion, posing a severe risk of descending into chaos.
Identifying themselves as members of the “Committee of Transition and Restoration of Institutions” (CTRI), the soldiers expressed a commitment to safeguarding peace by dismantling the existing regime. The address concluded on a hopeful note, as they extended blessings to the people of Gabon, stating, “We are finally on the road to bliss, may God and the souls of our ancestors bless our country.”
In addition to their announcement, the military leaders imposed the closure of national borders until further notice. They urged citizens, communities of fellow nations residing in Gabon, and the Gabonese diaspora to maintain a sense of calm and serenity amidst the unfolding events.
This development comes in the wake of Gabon’s government decision to impose a nationwide curfew and cut off internet access on Saturday (Aug. 26), following the conclusion of major national elections. The elections encompassed the selection of new local leaders, national legislators, and the country’s future president.
Fears of post-electoral violence prompted many residents of the capital to seek refuge with family members in different regions or even leave the country entirely. Others took precautions by stockpiling food and enhancing security measures in their homes.
The concerns over violence prior to the elections stem from deep-seated grievances among Gabon’s population of approximately 800,000 people. A staggering statistic revealed that nearly 40% of Gabonese between the ages of 15 and 24 were unemployed in the year 2020, according to data from the World Bank.
