The recent coup in Gabon, unlike previous ones in Francophone Africa, was not a revolt but rather a change of guard. However, the true targets of the coup have become clear. With the arrest of Noureddin Bongo Valentin and the conviction of Sylvia Bongo Ondimba Valentin, it is evident that the coup aimed to isolate and remove the influential figures from Gabon’s ruling clan. Interestingly, French players also seem to have had a hand in preventing an anti-France uprising.
The coup may have been motivated by contempt for the old, corrupt faces in power and a desire for new, loyal faces that are acceptable to French interests. Former insiders of President Ali Bongo’s regime, who were isolated by his son Noureddin and Sylvia after Ali’s stroke in 2018, grew increasingly uncomfortable with their own isolation. They were ousted by Noureddin, including his half-brother Frederic and Bongo’s cabinet chief, Brice Laccruche Alihanga. These power struggles within the Bongo family, along with the involvement of French influencers, suggest that the coup targeted not just Bongo but also the power behind him.
Gabon has long been a crucial player in la Françafrique, not only due to its rich mineral and financial resources but also as a neo-colonial laboratory. Since gaining independence, each Gabonese president has prioritized French interests over those of their own country. French involvement in Gabon dates back to the 1960s when French troops swiftly intervened in a coup attempt against President Léon M’ba. The relationship between France and Gabon has been further strengthened over the years, with French companies playing a significant role in Gabon’s economy.
Gabon’s vast natural resources, including petroleum, natural gas, diamonds, manganese, uranium, gold, timber, and iron ore, contribute significantly to its economy. The country is the fourth-largest oil producer in sub-Saharan Africa and has substantial reserves. French companies dominate the mining sector, with Eramet being the most strategic player in extracting and exporting manganese. The European Commission considers manganese as one of its critical raw materials, further emphasizing its importance. However, despite its resource wealth, Gabon still faces significant income inequality, with over half of its population living in poverty.
The close relationship between France and Gabon has been summarized by the late President Omar Bongo, who stated that “France without Gabon is like a car without fuel; Gabon without France is like a car without a driver.” Presidents Omar Bongo and Ali Bongo ruled Gabon for a combined total of 55 out of the 62 years since its independence, with the support of ten French presidents. The recent coup may bring cosmetic changes to Gabon, but the historical channels through which the country’s wealth has been transferred to France are unlikely to be disturbed. The enduring influence of Françafric in Gabon ensures that the country remains an indispensable part of French interests in Africa.
As Gabon moves forward, it is essential to consider the welfare and aspirations of its people. They deserve a future that is not dictated solely by foreign interests but one that prioritizes their own development and prosperity.
