Last week, Gabon's former President Ali Bongo was removed from office by the military. However, the transitional president has now allowed him the freedom to travel outside the country if he wishes.
Health Concerns
Due to his health condition, Ali Bongo has been given permission to move around freely. The Committee for the Transition and Restoration of Institutions (CTRI), which was formed after the coup, made this announcement on national television. The transitional president, Gen. Brice Oligui Nguema, stated that Bongo can even travel abroad for his medical check-up.
The Coup
Last week, a group of senior Gabonese army officers took control of the government and placed Bongo under house arrest. This happened shortly after Bongo was declared the winner of the presidential election, securing his third term with 64.27% of the votes.
Transitional President
Gen. Nguema was sworn in as the transitional head of state on Monday.
Health Challenges
Bongo, who suffered a severe stroke in October 2018, has been physically impaired ever since. He faces difficulties in moving his right leg and arm. Despite his health condition, Bongo had been in power for over a decade.
Freedom Brokered
The President of the Central African Republic, Faustin-Archange Touadera, played a role in securing Bongo's freedom. Touadera, acting as an envoy of the Commission of the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) bloc, met with Gen. Nguema in the capital city, Libreville. It was during this meeting that Bongo's freedom to travel was arranged.
Possible Destinations
Reports suggest that Bongo may choose to travel to Morocco, Saudi Arabia, or the UK.
ECCAS Involvement
Following the coup, ECCAS suspended Gabon's membership. However, the fate of Bongo, who previously served as the chairperson of the bloc, was discussed during the meeting between Touadera and Nguema.