Bongo and his family freed after months of detention following the 2023 military takeover.
Ali Bongo Ondimba, who led Gabon for 14 years, has been released from house arrest alongside his wife Sylvia and son Noureddin. Their arrival in Angola was confirmed through photos shared by the Angolan presidency. This ends months of restricted movement following last year’s military takeover.
How the Bongo Era Ended
Bongo was overthrown in August 2023 by General Brice Oligui Nguema, ending over five decades of the Bongo family’s hold on power. The coup took place shortly after controversial election results were announced, with the military citing concerns over transparency and leadership.
Legal Battles and Allegations of Abuse
While Ali Bongo remained under house arrest in Libreville, his wife and son were detained and accused of stealing public money. Their legal team claimed they were tortured, and reports say the two were moved from prison cells to a home before leaving the country.
Behind-the-Scenes Talks Led to Release
Though no official terms have been shared, diplomatic talks between Angolan President João Lourenço and Gabon’s transitional leader Oligui are believed to have played a role in the release. Oligui was sworn in earlier this month after claiming a landslide victory in an election seen by some observers as peaceful but controversial.
Criticism Over How It Was Handled
The release has triggered mixed reactions at home. Former Prime Minister Alain-Claude Bilie By Nze questioned the legality of the Bongos’ detention, hinting that the decision was more about easing outside pressure than showing goodwill. Others called the quiet release an embarrassment to the nation.
Was It About Rejoining the African Union?
Geoffroy Foumboula Libeka, a member of Gabon’s transitional parliament, called the move “a disgrace.” He believes the timing is linked to Gabon’s recent return to the African Union, which had suspended the country but lifted the sanctions on April 30.
Challenges Still Ahead for Gabon
Bongo’s presidency had long faced criticism. After surviving a stroke in 2018, his absence from public life raised concerns. With rising debt, poor infrastructure, and widespread unemployment, the oil-rich country continues to face economic hardship.
Now, all eyes are on Oligui and his new team. Many in Gabon are watching closely to see if he can guide the country back to democratic rule while fixing the deep problems left behind.
