Bongo called on people to “make noise” to support him, but the crowds celebrated the coup against a dynasty accused of getting rich on the country’s resources while many of its citizens struggle.
Gabon, an OPEC member, is a major oil and manganese producer whose ousted president also made strides to protect vast Gabon's pristine forests and endangered elephants.
But Bongo's popularity had worn thin amid claims of corruption, sham elections, and a failure to spend more of Gabon's oil revenues on the country's poor.While there were legitimate grievances about the vote and Bongo's rule, his ousting is just a pretext to claim power for themselves, Gabon experts say.
“The timing of the coup, following the announcement of the implausible electoral results, and the speed with which the junta is moving suggests this was planned in advance,” said Joseph Siegle, director of research at the Africa Center for Strategic Studies. “While there are many legitimate grievances about the vote and Bongo’s rule, that has little to do with the coup attempt in Gabon. Raising those grievances is just a smokescreen,” he said.
Bongo 64, has served two terms since coming to power in 2009 after the death of his father, who ruled the country for 41 years, and there has been widespread discontent with his reign.
Brasil Últimas Notícias, Brasil Manchetes
Similar News:Você também pode ler notícias semelhantes a esta que coletamos de outras fontes de notícias.
Gabon awaits next move from junta after coup ousts President BongoGabon on Thursday awaited the next move by its new military junta one day after it overthrew the government, named a new leader and detained long-standing President Ali Bongo in his residence.
Consulte Mais informação »
Gabon President Ali Bongo wins third term after disputed electionPresident Ali Bongo has won a third term in the presidential election with 64.27% of the vote, the Gabonese Election Centre (CGE) said on Wednesday, after a delay-plagued general election that the opposition has denounced as fraudulent.
Consulte Mais informação »
Gabon military coup explained as President Ali Bongo overthrownArmy officers took to national TV in the west African state on Wednesday morning to say they had assumed control, in the latest military takeover in the region.
Consulte Mais informação »
Gabon junta names new transitional leader as Bongo seeks int'l helpThe announcement comes hours after military officers announced on national television that the armed forces had taken control and placed President Bongo under house arrest.
Consulte Mais informação »
Military 'seizes power' in Gabon, ends Bongo family's 55-year reignMilitary officers say the African country's borders have been closed until further notice and state institutions dissolved.
Consulte Mais informação »
Military Officers Claim They Have Ousted Gabon’s PresidentThe rebellion comes amid multiple coups and rising anti-French sentiment in France’s former colonies on the continent.
Consulte Mais informação »