Politics

Gabon becoming a monarchy: Jean Ping on top post for Bongo’s son

Last updated on September 11th, 2021 at 03:09 pm

Gabon becoming a monarchy, this is the view of opposition leader Jean Ping and former Prime Minister who served once as African Union Commission chief.
The ex-presidential aspirant was speaking to reporters at a press conference in the capital Libreville, in reaction to the appointment of the president’s son as coordinator of presidential affairs.
“This appointment confirms, once again, that the country is turning into a monarchy,” he is quoted to have said.
Nourredine Bongo Valentin, 27, first son of incumbent Ali Bongo was appointed a top presidential aide weeks back after a cabinet meeting.
The presidency justified the appointment stressing that the appointee had relevant competence and experience to hold the post.
Incumbent Ali Bongo Ondimba became president in 2009 after the death of his father Omar Bongo who had at the time governed the central African oil producer for over three decades.
He beat Ping in hotly contested polls of 2016 which secured him a second seven-year mandate. Elections are due in 2023 but analysts hold that an ailing Bongo will find it difficult to convince voters.
He spent the last few months of 2018 in hospital after suffering a stroke in Saudi Arabia. He only returned early this year after a coup was foiled to inaugurate a new government.

Albert Echetah

Recent Posts

Tanzania Opposition Leader Freeman Mbowe Released On Bail

The leader of Tanzania's main opposition party, Chadema, Freeman Mbowe, has been released on bail after being arrested on Friday,…

November 23, 2024

Four UAE Convoys Deliver Essential Aid to Gaza’s Struggling Communities

This week, four aid convoys carrying various forms of humanitarian supplies from the United Arab Emirates crossed the Rafah Border…

November 23, 2024

Rising Tide of Climate Change Protest: Arrest took place Amid Coal Export Demonstrations

Hundreds of demonstrators took to Newcastle's harbour in canoes and kayaks for a climate protest which resulted in several arrests.…

November 23, 2024

Unique 10 Animals Found Only in Africa

Africa is a continent that is well-known for its impressive variety of species and animals’specific looks. Cradling deserts and forests,…

November 23, 2024

Pastef party led by Ousmane Sonko wins historic election victory

Senegal's ruling Pastef party has won a resounding victory in the legislative elections, taking130 of the 165 seats in parliament,…

November 22, 2024

Famine Risk Reaches Critical Levels as FoodCrisis Deepens In Gaza

Gaza’s hunger crisis is not only statistic, but a set of narratives such as Yasmin Eid, amother of six, who…

November 22, 2024

This website uses cookies.