Gabonese junta frees Ali Bongo on ‘health grounds’
The Gabonese junta has released former President Ali Bongo over medical grounds.
His release came about a week after he was ousted by the military over what they termed as ‘rigged elections’.
His ouster came shortly after he was declared winner of the Gabon presidential election.
Gabon’s state TV, Gabon 24 on Wednesday night announced that Bongo is free to move around and travel to seek medical attention.
“Given his state of health, former President Ali Bongo is free to move about. He may also travel abroad for medical check-ups,” a junta spokesman said.
The junta also shared a video of the former Gabon president walking inside his house.
Bongo was put under house arrest after the military took over power.
His release came a few days after Junta leader Gen Brice Oligui Nguema was sworn in as Transitional president on Monday.
Speaking after being sworn in, Gen Nguema defended the seizure of power last week, saying that it was a patriotic act.
He quoted Ghana’s former military leader, and later elected president, Jerry John Rawlings, saying: “When the people are smashed by the leaders, then it’s the military who must give them back their dignity and freedom.
“It is in this spirit that we the defence forces took their responsibilities by refusing the… biased electoral process.”
Gen Nguema met the opposition candidate Albert Ondo Ossa as part of consultations on rebuilding the country on Wednesday.
Ossa was the main challenger to ousted President Ali Bongo, in the election which was annulled when the military seized power.
Gabonese junta frees Ali Bongo on ‘health grounds’