Gabon reinstated into African Union after ‘generally successful’ political transition

The African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council has officially reinstated on April 30 Gabon into its fold,lifting all sanctions following a favorable review of the country’s political transition.

The decision,taken during the Council’s 1,277th meeting,acknowledged that Gabon’s post-coup processes were “generally successful,” according to PSC Chairperson Rebecca Amuge Otengo.

The country had been suspended from AU activities after the military ousted President Ali Bongo Ondimba on 30 August 2023 in what was deemed an unconstitutional change of Government.

Speaking from AU headquarters in Addis Ababa,Gabon’s Foreign Minister,Regis Onanga Ndiaye,heralded the development as a moment of “honor and pride” for the nation. Representing transitional President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema,Ndiaye said Gabon’s return to the continental bloc restores its full participation in AU activities and major international engagements. The minister underscored the move as a key step in re-establishing Gabon’s standing within the global diplomatic community.

General Nguema,who led the coup last year,subsequently oversaw a return to constitutional order through elections in which he secured 94.85 percent of the vote. The AU’s endorsement follows this electoral process,with Nguema’s inauguration scheduled for 3 May in Libreville. His victory and the AU’s decision mark a significant shift toward regional acceptance and signal Gabon’s intent to resume its role in continental affairs.