Military Seizes Power in Gabon, Declares Coup Amid Celebrations

DAKAR: The military in Gabon has declared a coup, sending shockwaves through the Central African nation. The announcement was met with jubilant celebrations in the streets as rebel soldiers claimed power on state television. This dramatic move follows closely after President Ali Bongo Ondimba's victory in the presidential election results was announced.

The rebel soldiers announced the coup shortly after President Ali Bongo Ondimba, 64, was declared the winner of the presidential election. The soldiers have revealed that President Ali Bongo Ondimba has been detained, and other government officials have also been arrested on various charges in the aftermath of the coup.

This development carries significant weight due to the fact that the Ondimba family has held power in Gabon for the past 55 years. The abrupt shift in power signals a monumental change in the nation's political landscape.

Notably, The events unfolded rapidly, with reports of gunshots ringing out in the capital city of Libreville shortly after President Ondimba's victory was announced. Soon after, a group of soldiers claimed control of the government through a broadcast on state television. As news of the coup spread, citizens took to the streets in celebration, waving flags and singing the national anthem alongside the jubilant soldiers. The atmosphere was charged with emotion, reflecting a mixture of relief and anticipation for change.

Local citizen Yolande Okomo expressed her gratitude, saying, "Thank you army. Finally, we were waiting for this moment for a long time." The sentiment echoed the emotions of many who have been yearning for a shift in the nation's leadership.