African Union lifts sanctions on Gabon

The African Union, AU, on Wednesday said it has lifted sanctions against Gabon.

The Central African nation was suspended from the organisation following a coup in August 2023.

Brice Oligui Nguema – who led the coup – pledged to return the oil-rich country to civilian rule after a two-year transitional period and was elected President earlier this month with more than 94 percent of the vote.

The AU’s Political Affairs, Peace and Security Department said on X that a meeting of the Peace and Security Council on Gabon’s political transition reviewed the processes and found them to be generally successful.

The AU in a statement said Gabon will be welcome to immediately resume her participation in the activities of the Union.

Gabonese President Brice Oligui Nguema welcomed the news on Facebook, saying he felt a deep sense of pride.

“This return is much more than a symbol: it is recognition of our collective commitment to rebuilding our country in peace, order and dignity,” he added.

DAILY POST reports that Gabon was suspended when Nguema seized power after overthrowing President Ali Bongo, whose family had ruled for 55 years.

The new constitution said the President will lead the country with expanded powers.

The decision by the AU to lift sanctions follows a meeting last year between Nguema and Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara, in which the Gabonese leader asked for support in removing the sanctions.

The country of 2.3 million people has endured high unemployment, regular power and water shortages, and heavy government debt despite its oil wealth.