By LIBREVILLE, Gabon — Gabon’s interim president, Gen. Oligui Nguema, who seized power in a coup last year, has prohibited members of his transitional government from taking holidays abroad and limited their leave to a maximum of one week, state television reported Monday.
The new restrictions were announced following Gen. Nguema’s tour of the country to hear citizens’ concerns. This move comes as Gabon approaches the first anniversary of the coup that ousted former President Ali Bongo.
Gen. Nguema overthrew Bongo, his cousin, who had been in power since 2009. Bongo had succeeded his father, Omar Bongo Ondimba, who ruled Gabon for 41 years.
According to the announcement on state television, the goal of these restrictions is to “immerse” government officials “in the realities and expectations of their compatriots.”
A spokesman for the interim government explained that “this measure aims to encourage a return to the roots and increased proximity with local populations.” Exceptions to the rule will only be made in cases of “force majeure” or on health grounds.
The timing of this announcement, just days before the coup’s first anniversary, has led to speculation about Gen. Nguema’s political aspirations. Some observers suggest he may be positioning himself for a presidential run in the elections planned for 2025, though he has not publicly commented on this possibility.
Since taking power, Gen. Nguema has sought to portray his military government as acting in the best interests of the Gabonese people. This latest move appears to draw a contrast with the previous administration, as former President Bongo was known for frequent overseas travel and his family’s ownership of multiple properties in France and the UK.
However, Gen. Nguema himself has faced questions about his own foreign property holdings. When asked about reports of multiple properties he owns in the United States, he has previously stated that his private life should be respected.
It is understood that the new holiday restrictions will apply to Gen. Nguema as well, though he will likely be permitted to travel abroad for official purposes.
Despite the restrictions, Gabonese officials still have access to domestic tourist attractions, including white sand beaches and renowned gorilla safaris in Loango National Park.
As Gabon moves towards its planned 2025 elections, the first since the coup, these new measures are likely to be closely scrutinized as indicators of the interim government’s approach and priorities.
