The leader of the military junta in Gabon, Brice Nguema was on Monday, sworn in as the country’s interim president.
Recall that Nguema led the coup that took place last Wednesday against Ali Bongo, and overthrew the president shortly after he won the “controversial” elections.
A military parade took place during Monday’s inauguration ceremony at the presidential palace in Gabon’s capital, Libreville.
Daily Report Nigeria reports that supporters of the new military leadership attended the ceremony.
Ali Bongo: Things to Know About Gabonese President Ousted by Military
Former ministers of the deposed government also attended, but the pro-government crowd derided them.
According to checks, Gabon was the sixth French-speaking country to go under military rule in the past 3 years, as former colonial power France struggled to maintain its influence on the continent.
Gabon was suspended from the African Union, AU after the United Nations, UN, and France condemned the coup.
Although crowds of civilians cheered him at his inauguration, some feared that General Nguema’s rule would be a continuation of the 55-year Bongo dynasty.
Ali Bongo’s father, Omar, remained in power for 41 years before he died in 2009 and was succeeded by his son.
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