Coup leaders detain President Ali Bongo, appoint general to lead Gabon's 'transition'

Colonel Ulrich Manfoumbi Manfoumbi, spokesperson for the newly formed Committee for the Transition and Restoration of Institutions, reading a statement on Gabonese TV on August 30, 2023. © AFP/Gabon24

Mutinous soldiers in Gabon proclaimed their republican guard chief as the country’s leader Wednesday after placing the just-reelected President Ali Bongo Ondimba under house arrest, alleging betrayal and massive embezzlement during his long-time rule over the oil-rich Central African nation.

The coup leaders said in an announcement on Gabon’s state TV that Gen. Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema had been “unanimously” designated president of a transitional committee to lead the country.