History Illustrated: The Gabon coup: End of a family dynasty?

A military coup in Gabon has put an end to the more than 50 years of family rule by President Ali Bongo, although the new leader is his cousin and accusations of corruption continue to plague the country.

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8/30/2023

Business Daily - Gabon's economy: A wealth of resources that fails to trickle down to the population

Gabon's military officers have taken control of the country and placed President Ali Bongo under house arrest, exposing the country's economic challenges, including high levels of corruption and widespread poverty.

9/7/2023

Gabon's ousted leader has been freed and is allowed to travel abroad, military junta says

Gabon coup leader has released ousted president Ali Bongo Ondimba from house arrest and allowed him to travel abroad for medical check-ups.

9/10/2023

African coups show complex roots and mixed results for democracy

A recent coup in Gabon exemplifies the diversity of coup dynamics in Africa, with factors such as history, foreign intervention, economics, and the politicization of the military playing a role in shaping the outcome. While some recent coups in Africa, like those in the Sahel region, have been driven by security concerns, Gabon's coup is characterized by a continuity of the ruling elite and the maintenance of the status quo. Understanding the different patterns and drivers of coups can provide insight into the countries themselves and the current global political climate.

9/14/2023

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

General Brice Oligui Ngeuma, leader of the coup in Gabon, is seen by many as a liberator from the Bongo dynasty, but there are concerns about his plans for civilian rule and the corruption charges against former President Ali Bongo.