Gabon, an oil-rich country located on the west coast of Central Africa, with a population of just 2.4 million, finds itself amid a political crisis as a military coup has toppled President Ali Bongo’s government. The coup leaders have cited disagreements with the recent official election results as a primary motivation for their actions.

An Ousted President’s Appeal To Supporters

Speaking from his residence on Wednesday, Bongo issued a heartfelt plea to his supporters, urging them to “raise your voice” in response to the unfolding crisis. He also confirmed his house arrest, expressing uncertainty about the whereabouts of his family members and appealing for assistance.

Intriguingly, the ousted president chose to address the Commonwealth in English rather than using French, the official language of Gabon. This choice may signal a potential shift in diplomatic alliances as the situation unfolds.