Media Talk Africa: Latest Headlines in Politics, Business, Sports, and More

The Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) has lifted Gabon’s partial suspension from the bloc while maintaining scrutiny over the country’s progress toward restoring democratic governance. The decision, announced during a meeting on Thursday, follows months of engagement between the Commonwealth and Gabonese authorities after a military coup in August 2023 ousted President Ali Bongo Ondimba.

Formed in 1995 to uphold the Commonwealth’s core political values, CMAG comprises foreign ministers from eight rotating member states and Samoa’s foreign minister, who serves as Chairperson-in-Office. The group suspended Gabon in September 2023, condemning the unconstitutional seizure of power as a “serious breach” of the Commonwealth Charter. In its latest statement, CMAG reaffirmed its stance against undemocratic transitions, stressing that such actions undermine the bloc’s principles of constitutional rule and popular sovereignty.

While lifting the suspension signals cautious optimism, Gabon will remain on CMAG’s agenda for future meetings as it works to meet obligations under the charter. The group urged Gabon’s transitional government to prioritize reforms strengthening the rule of law, separation of powers, and good governance. It also tasked Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland with continuing dialogue to support the nation’s “full return to democratic rule.”

Since the coup, the Commonwealth has maintained diplomatic channels with Gabon, offering technical assistance to address governance gaps. The Central African nation, which joined the bloc in 2022, has faced international pressure to outline a credible roadmap for elections. CMAG’s decision reflects a balance between acknowledging incremental progress and applying sustained oversight to ensure compliance with democratic norms.

Analysts suggest the move may ease Gabon’s diplomatic isolation while keeping pressure on its military-led administration to honor reform pledges. The country’s inclusion in CMAG’s agenda ensures ongoing accountability, with future reviews likely tied to tangible steps such as electoral reforms or the establishment of civilian-led institutions.

The development underscores CMAG’s dual role as both a guardian of the Commonwealth’s values and a mediator in political crises. As Gabon navigates its transition, the bloc’s engagement highlights the delicate interplay between enforcing democratic standards and supporting member states through complex post-coup transitions.