Tensions are palpable in Gabon after a military group pulled off a daring coup d’etat in the wee hours of Wednesday.
Gabon coup: Here’s everything we know
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As reported by Reuters, a group of senior Gabonese military officers took control of the state, announcing their seizure of power on national television shortly after the country’s election body declared President Ali Bongo the winner of a third term in office.
The group, comprised of 12 officers, made their declaration on the Gabon24 TV channel, expressing their concerns over what they referred to as “irresponsible, unpredictable governance” leading to a deterioration in social cohesion and the potential for chaos.
One of the officers emphasised their intention to “defend peace by putting an end to the current regime.”
As of now, there has been no official response from the Gabon government regarding the military’s actions.
One of the significant measures taken by the military group is the indefinite closure of Gabon’s borders, as confirmed in a statement broadcast on the state-run Gabon24.
This action is attributed to the “Committee for the Transition and Restoration of Institutions,” which is now overseeing the country’s affairs.
In a statement read on state TV, the military officers asserted their commitment to maintaining the nation’s obligations to both the national and international community.
They also called for calm and serenity among the Gabonese people, as well as those from sister countries residing in Gabon and the Gabonese diaspora.
The unexpected coup and closure of borders have triggered a range of reactions from the public and international observers.
The sudden shift in power has sparked concerns about the political stability of the nation, especially in light of President Ali Bongo’s recent electoral victory.
Gabonese people reactions to the military coup
The public’s response varies from uncertainty to anticipation as they await further developments in this fluid situation.
Here are some of the videos that surfaced online, showing how Gabonese people reacted to the coup: