Ali Bongo, Gabon’s deposed president, has officially announced his retirement from politics, a year after he was ousted in a military coup. The 65-year-old leader, who had ruled the oil-rich Central African nation since 2009, confirmed his decision in a letter addressed to the Gabonese people.
“I wish to reaffirm my withdrawal from political life and the definitive renunciation of any national ambition,” Bongo wrote, marking an end to his long and controversial political career.
The statement, which also called for the release of his wife Sylvia and son Noureddin, who are currently in detention facing corruption charges, raises questions about whether Bongo’s decision was influenced by negotiations with the ruling military junta. Bongo’s wife is charged with money laundering and forgery, while his son faces similar accusations. Both have denied the allegations, with their legal team branding the detentions as “arbitrary and illegal.”
A Political Dynasty Ends
Ali Bongo, son of Omar Bongo who ruled Gabon for more than 40 years, had been at the helm of the country since 2009. His presidency came to a sudden halt in August 2023 when the army seized power following disputed election results that declared Bongo the winner. The coup, led by Gen Brice Oligui Nguema, was celebrated by many Gabonese citizens but condemned internationally, particularly by France, Gabon’s former colonial ruler, and various African organizations.
In his letter, Bongo expressed regret over the hardships many Gabonese citizens continue to face, despite his government’s achievements. “I understand that despite the achievements made under my mandates, too many Gabonese people are still suffering, and this remains my greatest regret,” he wrote, acknowledging the economic disparity in the country where, despite its vast oil wealth, a third of its 2.4 million people live in poverty.
While Bongo reflected on his presidency’s shortcomings, he called for national reconciliation. “I call on my country, its leaders and my fellow citizens to renounce vengeance and to write its next history with harmony and humanity,” he urged, adding that he would not pose any threat to Gabon’s transition.
Restricted and Isolated
Bongo’s life since the coup has been marked by isolation and restrictions, despite his release from house arrest shortly after the takeover. “My visits depend on the authorisation of the military. Isolated from the outside world without communications, without news of my family,” Bongo revealed, painting a picture of a life under surveillance.
Though Gen Nguema, the coup leader, had taken a somewhat conciliatory tone by allowing Bongo to remain in Gabon or travel abroad, it appears the former president’s movements remain heavily monitored. Despite Bongo’s appeal, the military government has so far refrained from commenting on his letter or addressing his request for the release of his wife and son. However, they have previously denied allegations of torture against his family members.
Bongo’s health has been a major concern since suffering a stroke in 2018, a condition that cast a shadow over the 2023 elections. His limited public appearances and visible health issues led to widespread speculation about his ability to lead the country, further inflaming political tensions.
A Nation at a Crossroads
The Bongo family’s legacy in Gabon, intertwined with allegations of corruption and economic mismanagement, remains divisive. Despite vast natural resources, Gabon has struggled with high levels of poverty and unemployment. Critics accuse the Bongo dynasty of enriching itself at the expense of the nation’s wealth, claims the family has always denied.
For now, Gabon’s future lies in the hands of the military. Gen Nguema has promised free and fair elections and the return to civilian rule, though he has not clarified whether he will run for president himself. As the country prepares for a political transition, Bongo’s final message was one of hope and reconciliation. “I plead for national reconciliation and the end of the suffering,” he concluded, reiterating his withdrawal from political life and a pledge to avoid further disruption.
