This archive report was first published on 21 August 2019.
On August 21, 2019, a dramatic turn of events unfolded in Gabon as a group of military officers attempted to seize power. The coup attempt, which was met with swift action by the authorities, has left the country reeling.
According to reports, the officers, led by Lt Kelly Ondo Obiang, had taken control of the National radio station in the early hours of the morning, broadcasting a message to the nation. In a video that has been circulating on social media, Lt Obiang cited his dissatisfaction with President Ali Bongo, who has been recuperating in Morocco after suffering a stroke in October 2018.
The coup attempt was allegedly sparked by the president's admission of his deteriorating health in his New Year's message, which sparked outrage among some members of the army. Lt Obiang specifically mentioned the assassination of young compatriots on August 31, 2016, as a reason for the coup.
Four of the officers involved in the coup attempt have since been arrested, while one remains at large. The incident has raised concerns about the stability of the government in Gabon, which has been ruled by the Bongo family for nearly 50 years.
