After “free, transparent” elections, the military regime in Gabon’s commander has committed to hand over control to civilians.
He did not specify a date, though, in an address following his inauguration as interim president.
Ali Bongo was overthrown last Wednesday by a coup led by Brice Nguema, who had just been declared the winner of a disputed election.
At the inauguration, large crowds of enthusiastic citizens attended; many people were anxious for change and embraced the coup.
Gen Nguema’s authority, according to some, will extend the 55-year Bongo dynasty.
Before passing away in 2009 and being succeeded by his son, Omar Bongo ruled for 41 years.
The general, who is rumored to be Ali Bongo’s cousin, spent the majority of his career in the Bongo family’s inner circle.
The ceremony was held at the presidential palace in Libreville, the country’s capital, and included a military parade as well.
Former government ministers attended as well, although they were jeered by a group of supporters of the junta.
The ceremony is the most recent in a string of military coups that have occurred throughout West and Central Africa.
As the former colonial power France battles to maintain its sway on the continent, Gabon is the sixth country in the Francophone world to be placed under military rule in the last three years.
Following the coup, which was denounced by the UN and France, Gabon has been expelled from the African Union.
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