One year after the coup that ended the Bongo family’s 55-year rule, Gabon is finally taking steps toward democracy. The Bongo dynasty, marked by authoritarianism and corruption, faced growing public dissatisfaction, especially after Ali Bongo’s controversial re-election in 2016. Following another controversial win in the 2023 elections, the military ousted Ali Bongo and appointed his cousin Brice Oligui Nguema as interim president. The transitional government has since organized an inclusive national dialogue, leading to reforms like a two-term limit for the presidency. Although elections are promised for August 2025, concerns persist over potential delays. General Nguema’s repeated assurances to adhere to the timeline have helped restore Gabon’s suspended Central African Economic Community membership. However, speculation is rising that Nguema may use this period to prepare for his own presidential bid, raising questions about the future role of civil society and the true return to democratic governance.
SOURCE: DW
Gabon Strides Towards Democracy One Year After Coup
