A group of high-ranking military officers in Gabon declared they were seizing power from President Ali Bongo Ondimba in a stunning coup on Wednesday, threatening the familys half-century rule over the central African nation.
Men in army uniform appeared on national television to announce the presidents house arrest during the military takeover, prompting celebrations and reports of gunfire on the streets of the capital but condemnation overseas.
“It is brought to the attention of the national and international community that Ali Bongo Ondimba is being kept under house arrest,” anunta spokesperson said on state TV on Wednesday morning.
The ousted president is surrounded by his “family and doctors,” the spokesperson added.
Source: Qatar News Agency