There are reports of military coup in Gabon, as the military seized the state-owned radio station in the capital Libreville and a soldier read a speech, condemning President Ali Bongo’s new year speech. The soldier identified as Lieutenant Kelly Ondo Obiang announced the creation of a “National Restoration Council”, RFI radio in Africa reported.
RFI radio reported that the military had arrived at the office of the broadcaster at about 4 am local time. Obiang said he was reading a communique on behalf of the army. The statement says that a New Year’s address by President Ali Bongo “reinforced doubts about the president’s ability to continue to carry out of the responsibilities of his office”.
Stroke-hit Bongo is at present not in the country. Gabon’s President Ali Bongo Ondimba was hospitalised in Riyadh on 24 October. According to RFI, the 59-year-old president suffered a stroke. He is currently undergoing a recovery treatment in Morocco, the radio station noted. He is said to be recuperating in Morocco. NAN
Pix: President Ali Bongo of Gabon
