Ali Bongo, the former President of Gabon who was ousted in a coup in 2023, has departed the country and is currently in Angola, as confirmed by local authorities.
The Angolan presidency stated on social media that Bongo’s family has been released from detention and is now with him in Luanda.
Bongo’s wife, Sylvia, and son, Noureddin, had faced corruption allegations and were imprisoned in 2023.
They have not publicly addressed the charges, but Ms. Bongo’s attorney has labeled her detention as arbitrary and unlawful.
Their release follows a visit by Angolan President João Lourenço, who is also the current head of the African Union, to Libreville, where he engaged in discussions with Brice Oligui Nguema, the former general who led the coup against Bongo and was elected president last month.
It remains uncertain whether the legal actions against Sylvia and Noureddin Bongo will proceed.
Ali Bongo, whose father Omar Bongo governed Gabon for over forty years, served as president for 14 years until the coup in 2023.
Following his removal, he was placed under house arrest, although Gabonese officials claim he had the freedom to move as he pleased.
His wife and son were initially imprisoned but were reportedly moved to house arrest last week. Bongo has publicly condemned the violence and torture that his family has allegedly endured, despite authorities denying any mistreatment.
Throughout their 14 years in power, the Bongo family has been accused of amassing personal wealth at the nation’s expense, allegations they refute.
Despite Gabon’s status as an oil-rich country, the UN reports that one-third of its population lives below the poverty line.
