Military seized power in Gabon

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In this video grab, Gabon soldiers call on the people to 'rise up' against President Ali Bongo [YouTube via AFP]
Libreville-Junior officers earlier claimed they had seized power "to restore democracy" in oil-rich Gabon, where the ailing leader's family has ruled for 50 years. Tanks and armed vehicles could be seen on the streets of the capital Libreville.
The soldiers took control of the national radio station at 04:30 local time to read a short statement announcing a "National Restoration Council".
Current leader Ali Bongo succeeded his father Omar Bongo as president in 2009. He narrowly won re-election in 2016 in a poll marred by violence and accusations of fraud.
But his presidency has been overshadowed by a long-running French investigation into allegations of embezzlement involving the Bongo family's assets. Mr Bongo, who has been out of the country for two months, reportedly suffered a stroke in October and received treatment in Morocco.
In a video circulating on social media, three young soldiers can be seen in a radio studio wearing military fatigues and holding guns.
"It [the new year message] reinforced doubts about his ability to assume the responsibilities of his role as President of the Republic", said Lt Kelly Ondo Obiang, the leader of the so-called Patriotic Movement of the Defence and Security Forces of Gabon.

Source: BBC

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