Ali Bongo Ondimba, who was deposed as president of Gabon last week in a coup that ended his family’s decades-long grip on power in the central African nation, is no longer subject to house arrest and is free to leave the country, the ruling military junta has said.
Mr. Bongo’s health has long been a concern after he suffered a stroke five years ago and was often seen walking with a cane.
The military said in a statement read on national television on Wednesday night that he would be allowed to travel overseas for medical care.
The announcement from the military came two days after the leader of the coup, Gen. Brice Oligui Nguema, a cousin of the ousted leader and the head of the elite Republican Guard that was tasked with guarding him, was sworn in as Gabon’s new leader.
After taking oath on Monday, General Nguema promised to hold free and fair elections but did not indicate when or how they would take place.
Persons:
Ali Bongo Ondimba, Brice Oligui Nguema, General Nguema
Organizations:
Republican Guard
Locations:
Gabon