Gabon marks one year anniversary of 'liberation coup', pledges reforms

Gabonese people largely supported the military's overthrow of President Ali Bongo, who had been criticized for mismanagement of the central African nation's oil wealth, which left the economy stagnant and a third of the population living in poverty.

A ceremony marking the first anniversary of the overthrow of President Ali Bongo, in Libreville, Gabon, August 30, 2024. Photo: REUTERS/Gerauds Wilfried Obangome

Hundreds of people gathered in the center of the capital Libreville on Friday to join celebrations led by interim President General Brice Oligui Nguema on the first anniversary of the "liberation coup" in Gabon.

A year on, the economic situation remains uncertain and the military government has yet to confirm a date for a transition to democratic elections. However, many citizens are cautiously optimistic.

Gabon faces significant challenges. Despite its oil wealth, the country’s infrastructure is poor, it relies heavily on food imports, and its per capita income is lower than it was in the 1970s.

The military government has taken steps to improve transparency and budget management, but the International Monetary Fund (IMF) warns that a brighter economic outlook will depend on the ability to transition to more open and inclusive governance, as well as economic diversification and fiscal balance.

Cao Phong (according to Reuters)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/chinh-quyen-quan-su-gabon-cam-ket-cai-cach-sau-mot-nam-dao-chinh-post310218.html