Junior Officers in oil-rich Gabon said they have seized power in what is a coup d’etat.
The officers said they did it to “restore democracy” in the country. Ali Bongo, who has been out of the country for two months after reportedly suffering stroke, succeeded his father as President in 2009. The Bongo family has been ruling the country for 50 years.
Tanks and other armed vehicles are currently on the streets of the capital. Libreville.
Ali Bongo had on new year’s day sought to put an end to rumours about his health by giving a televised speech where he said he was feeling fine and getting better, but the Military called it “pitiful” and and a move to cling on to power.
US President Donald Trump, fearing violence had deployed soldiers to Gabon to protect US citizens.
The Military also seized radio stations and used it to broadcast their intentions.