IN a significant development following the ousting of Gabon’s long-standing president Ali Bongo Ondimba, his eldest son Noureddin Bongo Valentin and several associates have been charged with high treason and corruption. This revelation was made by Libreville prosecutor Andre-Patrick Roponat in a statement to the French news agency AFP on Wednesday.
Bongo, who had been at the helm of the oil-rich central African nation since 2009, was removed from power by military leaders on August 30, shortly after being declared the winner of a presidential election. The election result had drawn allegations of fraud from the opposition and the military coup leaders, who also accused Bongo’s regime of extensive corruption and poor governance.
Among those charged and placed in provisional detention is Jessye Ella Ekogha, who had previously served as the presidential spokesperson. Additionally, four other individuals closely associated with the former leader are facing similar charges, according to the prosecutor.
The military coup on August 30 resulted in the arrest of not only Noureddin Bongo Valentin but also five senior cabinet officials and Sylvia Bongo Valentin, Ali Bongo’s wife. National television broadcasted images of those arrested, showcasing suitcases filled with cash that were purportedly seized from their residences.
The charges of high treason and corruption against Noureddin Bongo Valentin and his associates signal a significant turning point in Gabon’s political landscape, as the nation grapples with the aftermath of the military takeover and allegations of electoral misconduct. The legal proceedings are expected to shed further light on the events surrounding the change of power and the allegations of corruption that have plagued Ali Bongo’s administration.