Former Gabonese President Ali Bongo Ondimba, who was ousted in a military coup in August 2023, has been allowed to leave Gabon and has arrived in Angola with his wife, Sylvia Bongo, and their son, Noureddin Bongo Valentin. This relocation follows an agreement between the new Gabonese interim president, Brice Oligui Nguema, and Angolan President João Lourenço, facilitated by the African Union, which had called for the release and protection of the Bongo family.
Ali Bongo, who had been under house arrest following the coup, was released on medical grounds in September 2023. His wife and son were detained and faced charges of embezzlement and money laundering. Their supporters alleged mistreatment during their detention, claims that were denied by the junta . In September 2024, Ali Bongo announced his withdrawal from politics and called for national reconciliation, accepting responsibility for the failings of his regime.
The Bongo family’s relocation to Angola marks a significant development in the aftermath of the coup and reflects ongoing efforts by regional leaders to mediate and stabilize the situation in Gabon.
