Former Gabonese President Ali Bongo Ondimba and his family have been freed from detention and have arrived in Luanda, Angola, diplomatic sources confirmed Friday.
The release follows mediation efforts by Angolan President João Lourenço, who currently chairs the African Union. In a statement posted on social media, the Angolan presidency said:
“Following the initiatives made by the President of the Republic of Angola and President-in-Office of the African Union, João Lourenço, with President Brice Oligui Nguema of Gabon, the Bongo family has been released and has just arrived in Luanda.”
Ali Bongo Ondimba, who ruled Gabon for 14 years before being ousted in a military coup in August 2023, had been under house arrest since the takeover. His release marks a significant diplomatic development in Central Africa.
No further details were immediately available regarding the conditions of his release or future plans.
