Gabon - August 2025

On 12 August, the Gabonese government adopted an order granting a general amnesty to those who participated in the 2023 coup d’état that removed former President Ali Bongo and which was led by recently elected President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema. Its provisions also extend to participants in a 2019 failed coup attempt led by Lieutenant Kelly Ondo Obiang, who was subsequently imprisoned by the Bongo regime. The order, which the government said was intended to facilitate national reconciliation, covers ‘common law offences and those against the internal or external security of the state’ but excludes economic offences, serious violations of human rights and offences unconnected to the coups. In applicable cases, the order has the effect of expunging convictions, ceasing current prosecutions, prohibiting future prosecutions and provides for the immediate release of prisoners. Kelly was released from prison on 30 August.

Sources: Présidence de la République Gabonaise,  Jeune Afrique, Agence de Presse Africaine, Seneweb