Gabon coup stirs hopes for change, but path ahead unclear as junta vows elections after ousting Bongo

Gabon's coup leader Gen Nguema is seen by some as a liberator from the Bongo family's decades of rule, though he was part of their inner circle.

Many Gabonese have hopes for Nguema and civilian rule, but opposition figures fear he may cling to power.

Nguema has taken a conciliatory approach to ousted president Ali Bongo, allowing him to stay in Gabon, but some want Bongo charged with corruption.

Gabon has strong economic ties with France that the junta wants to maintain, unlike other recent African coups.

The junta vows to improve living conditions and hold credible elections, but it's unclear if promises for change will be fulfilled.