Credited from: REUTERS
Ali Bongo, Gabon's ousted former president, has arrived in Angola with his family after approximately 19 months of detention in Libreville. His wife, Sylvia Bongo, and son, Noureddin, were recently released from prison, marking a significant moment following their detention that began after a military coup in August 2023. This move to Angola was facilitated by diplomatic discussions between Angolan President João Lourenço and Gabon's current president, Brice Oligui Nguema, who assumed power after the coup, according to BBC, Africanews, and Reuters.
The Angolan presidency noted that the Bongo family's arrival was for "humanitarian reasons" and indicated they will soon decide where to live next as exiles. Their departure follows a period of house arrest after being transferred from prison, where they faced ongoing allegations of corruption, including embezzlement and money laundering, as reported by Africanews and Reuters. In prior statements, family lawyer Francois Zimeray confirmed their release and highlighted the efforts made to secure their freedom.
The Bongo family had been a dominant political force in Gabon for over 50 years, with Ali Bongo becoming president in 2009. Supporters claim that during their detention, Sylvia and Noureddin faced torture, allegations which have been denied by the current regime, according to BBC and Reuters.