Three days after overthrowing President Ali Bongo Ondimba at the head of Gabon, the military announced on Saturday, September 2, the reopening of the country’s borders from the same day.
“Anxious to preserve respect for the rule of law, good relations with our neighbors and all the States of the world, and in order to promote the continuity of the State while demonstrating our firm desire to meet our international commitments”the Committee for the Transition and the Restoration of Institutions (CTRI) “decide with immediate effect on the reopening of land, sea and air borders” of the country, declared on state television Colonel Ulrich Manfoumbi Manfoumbi, spokesman for the latter.
The borders had been closed since Wednesday’s coup that ousted President Bongo, who had ruled the country for fourteen years. On the other hand, the authorities have not lifted the curfew which remains in force throughout the territory from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., but “Travellers arriving in the Gabonese Republic or wishing to leave will be authorized to circulate on presentation of their travel document”said Mr. Manfoumbi Manfoumbi.
At the head of the coup and of the CTRI, General Brice Oligui Nguema, who must take the oath as “Transitional President” Monday, promised institutions Friday “more democratic” and respectful of ” human rights “but without “precipitation”after meetings conducted at a frantic pace in recent days with parties, the diplomatic corps, international organizations and donors.
Gabon’s new strongman also targeted ” Corruption “ of the former power of Mr. Bongo, whose family had ruled this small oil-rich Central African state for more than 55 years.