Omar Bongo died in power in 2009 after 42 years of corrupt rule. His son, Ali, took over. Now impaired, Ali has appointed his son to rule Gabon de facto.
Gabon articles on Democracy Chronicles
News about the struggle for democracy in Gabon. Gabon is not a functioning democracy and opposition to the lack of democratic progress has continued to grow. Also check out our section on World Democracy or our Africa articles.
Gabon’s Ailing Dictator Returns for Government Swearing-in
Gabon’s President Ali Bongo Ondimba, who has been out of country for health reasons since October, has returned for the swearing-in of his new government.
Gabon’s President Returns Home After Extended Medical Leave
His return comes a week after a military group took over the state radio station. The coup was quickly halted but exposed growing frustration.
Authoritarian-Overstretch Led to the Recent Gabon Coup Attempt
The coup attempt in Gabon was the result of authoritarian-overstretch as frustrations increase against the Bongo dynasty and the coup failed due to lack of widespread support.
Post-Coup Gabon Crackdown on Civil Society and Opposition Underway
Global rights groups concerned by Gabon government’s targeting of human rights defenders and opposition members for military coup attempt.
Gabon Coup Attempt After-Effects May Not be Over
Armed men who took over Gabon state TV before dawn Monday had a stern message, followed a script typical for military-led coups in West and Central Africa.
Dictatorship in Control After Attempted Gabon Military Coup
Bongo has been in office since 2009. His father ran the oil-rich country before him, and many have criticized the family for profiting off the country.
Tropical Disruption: Gabon
With oil, Gabon has one of the highest GDPs in Africa. But the fact that it is the largest African importer of champagne illustrates that the wealth distribution there basically runs along the lines of the Bongo family versus the Gabonese people.
Vice President Confirms Gabon Dictator Bongo Suffered A Stroke
Gabon President Ali Bongo, out of country since falling ill in October, suffered stroke, vice president said, providing first official details of illness.
Government Confirms Gabon Dictator Seriously Ill In Saudi Arabia
Central African nation’s presidency said in statement on Sunday latest word about health of president Ali Bongo Ondimba of Gabon was “extremely reassuring”.