Ousted president quits Gabon politics, calls for wife’s release

Ali Bongo, the deposed president of Gabon, has announced his exit from politics one year after a military coup removed him from power. In a heartfelt letter to the Gabonese people, the 65-year-old affirmed his decision to withdraw from political life permanently and renounce any national ambitions.

Bongo, who served as president since 2009 after succeeding his father, called for the release of his wife, Sylvia, and their son, Noureddin, both of whom are currently detained on corruption charges. The specifics of his decision remain uncertain; it is unclear whether he has engaged in negotiations with the military authorities or if he hopes his political withdrawal will facilitate his family’s freedom.

The former president’s health has been a significant concern since he suffered a stroke in 2018, which likely influenced public perceptions ahead of the 2023 presidential election. The military seized power in August after declaring Bongo the winner of the contested election, which faced strong opposition claims of fraud.

Under Bongo’s leadership, which began in 2009, the family maintained close ties to France, Gabon’s former colonial ruler. The military coup, led by General Brice Oligui Ngeuma, was met with celebrations in some quarters of Gabon, although it drew condemnation from various regional and international bodies, including France.

After the coup, Bongo was released from house arrest but remains under surveillance in the capital, Libreville. Although Gen Nguema has taken a relatively conciliatory stance, allowing Bongo the option to leave the country, Bongo’s letter expressed concerns over his restricted movements, which require military authorization. He described his situation as one of isolation, lacking communication with the outside world and updates about his family.

In his letter, Bongo called for an end to the alleged “violence and torture” against his family. Sylvia Bongo and Noureddin are facing serious allegations, including embezzlement and money laundering. Sylvia’s lawyer, Francois Zimeray, has previously criticized her detention as arbitrary and illegal, yet no public comment has been made by her on the charges.

Bongo characterized his wife and son as “helpless scapegoats,” emphasizing that his departure from active politics extends to them. The military government has yet to respond to his latest statements but has previously denied allegations of mistreatment against Bongo’s family.

The Bongo family has been accused of misappropriating national resources over their long tenure, claims they vehemently deny. Despite Gabon’s oil wealth, the United Nations reports that approximately one-third of its 2.4 million citizens live below the poverty line, highlighting stark economic disparities.

While acknowledging the challenges during his presidency, Bongo expressed hope that the junta would address the “national suffering” of Gabonese people and urged for national reconciliation. He recognized that despite any accomplishments during his tenure, many Gabonese citizens continue to struggle, which he cited as his greatest regret.

Gen Nguema has promised to facilitate free and fair elections leading to a civilian government, but he has not clarified whether he will run for the presidency in the upcoming elections planned for next year.

Bongo concluded his letter with a call for unity, urging his fellow citizens and leaders to abandon vengeance and work towards a harmonious future for Gabon. He reassured the nation that he would not be a source of trouble during the transitional period, emphasizing his desire for peace and stability in the country.