The African Union lifted sanctions on Gabon after the military coup in August 2023, which showed that Central African countries were accepted for mainland affairs. The decision was announced on Wednesday, with the AU’s Peace and Security Commission assessing Gabon’s political transition and finding it “general success.”
Gabon was suspended after General Brice Oligui Nguema removed the long, non-mobile coup, ending the 55-year rule of the Bongo family. At the time, the African Union condemned the acquisition and imposed sanctions on its zero-tolerance stance on unconstitutional changes in the government.
Oligui promised to return to the country after a two-year transition period to restore civil rule, and was elected at 94% of the vote earlier this month due to limited opposition. The AU’s Ministry of Political Affairs, the Ministry of Peace and Security, confirmed on X that the recent review of the transitional process in Gabon concluded that the country can now “resume her activities” immediately.
President Oligui welcomed the AU’s decision in a statement to Facebook, saying he felt “deep pride” and described the move as a recognition of the Gabonese people’s efforts to rebuild the country “peace, order and dignity”.
The lifting of sanctions also follows diplomatic efforts, including a key meeting last year between Oligui and Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara, during which Oligui sought regional support to reintegrate Gabon into the African Union.
Despite its oil wealth, Gabon’s population is still facing widespread unemployment, infrastructure challenges and government debt. The new constitution adopted by the Oligui government has expanded the presidential power, prompting international caution to monitor the trajectory of democracy.
