Emmanuel OchayiDifferent world leaders and International bodies have reacted to the recent military Coup in Gabon, demanding quick stabilization in the country.
Gabon, a Central African nation known for its oil wealth, witnessed a stunning turn of events as mutinous soldiers claimed to have seized power, putting President Ali Bongo Ondimba under house arrest.
This audacious move came just hours after Bongo was declared the winner in an election that would have extended his family’s rule to 55 years. In a video from his apparent detention at his residence, President Bongo called on the people to “make noise” to support him, but the response from the streets of the capital was quite the opposite.
President Ali Bongo Ondimba: “Make noise, my dear compatriots, and above all, protect our democracy.” Instead of rallying behind the embattled leader, crowds gathered in the capital and united their voices through the national anthem, voicing their support for the apparent coup attempt.
This uprising is being celebrated as a pushback against a dynasty that’s been accused of enriching itself through the country’s abundant resources, while many of its citizens continue to grapple with financial hardship.
Ali Bongo Ondimba has held the presidency for two terms since taking office in 2009 after the passing of his father, who had ruled the country for 41 years. This long-standing rule has faced its most significant challenge yet as the military claims control.
World leaders and international bodies have reacted to the Coup Attempt in Gabon
France
The French government swiftly condemned the unfolding military coup and emphasized their wish for respect for the election outcome. France has maintained strong economic, diplomatic, and military ties with Gabon, further amplifying their concern.
French Government Spokesperson Olivier Veran: “France condemns the military coup that is underway in Gabon and is closely monitoring developments.”
United States
“It’s deeply concerning. We are going to watch this closely, and we’re going to continue to do everything we can to support the idea of democratic ideals that are expressed by the African people,” said White House national security spokesman John Kirby.”
The European Union’s top diplomat voiced concerns about the potential for increased instability in the region due to the coup, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Josep Borrell, EU’s Top Diplomat: “If this is confirmed, it’s another military coup, which increases instability in the whole region.”
The African Union’s leadership denounced the coup attempt and called for a peaceful return to constitutional order, urging the security forces to prioritize the safety of the president and his government.
Moussa Faki Mahamat, Head of African Union Commission: “Guarantee the personal safety of the president…return to democratic constitutional order.”
China
“China closely follows the development of the situation in Gabon and calls on relevant parties in Gabon to … restore normal order as soon as possible. And also ensure the personal safety of President Bongo, maintain national peace, stability, and overall development,” said Wang Wenbin, a spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry.
Russia
“Moscow has received with concern reports of a sharp deterioration in the internal situation in the friendly African country. We continue to closely monitor the development of the situation and hope for its speedy stabilization,” Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said.
Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland called the coup attempt “an illegal takeover of power”.
“The Commonwealth Charter is clear that member states must uphold the rule of law and the principles of democracy at all times and the Commonwealth Secretariat will be keenly monitoring the situation,” she said.
The coup attempt has ignited reactions from nations around the world, all expressing their concerns and advocating for a swift resolution to the crisis. As the situation unfolds, the international community remains closely engaged, awaiting updates on the future of Gabon’s leadership and the stability of the nation.
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