AU lifts sanctions on Gabon, citing successful political transition after 2023 coup; Nguema elected president, pledges civilian rule despite economic challenges.

The African Union (AU) has officially lifted sanctions imposed on Gabon, according to a statement released on Wednesday. Gabon had been suspended from the continental body following a military coup that took place in August 2023.

In its announcement, the AU’s Political Affairs, Peace and Security Department stated that a meeting of the Peace and Security Council was held to evaluate Gabon’s political transition. The Council concluded that the transition process had been “generally successful,” prompting the decision to lift the suspension.

The AU further declared that Gabon is now invited “to immediately resume her participation in the activities” of the organization, effectively restoring the country’s full membership.

Gabon was initially suspended after General Brice Oligui Nguema seized power by toppling President Ali Bongo, whose family had ruled the nation for over five decades. Following the coup, Nguema promised to restore civilian governance after a transitional period of two years.

In April, Nguema was elected president with 94 percent of the vote. Under the newly adopted constitution, the role of the president now includes expanded powers, allowing for a more centralized form of leadership.

The AU’s decision comes months after a diplomatic meeting between Nguema and Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara, during which Nguema appealed for assistance in ending Gabon’s suspension from the AU.

Despite being rich in oil resources, Gabon, a country of 2.3 million people, has struggled with significant socio-economic challenges, including high unemployment, frequent power and water outages, and a heavy burden of public debt.