Media Wire Express Correspondent
Gabon‘s temporary leader, who took control in a coup a year ago, has prohibited members of his interim government from vacationing abroad.
General Oligui Nguema has also capped the holiday leave for government officials at one week maximum.
These fresh limitations were revealed on state television after he traveled across the country to address people’s concerns.
There are speculations that General Nguema might be preparing to contest in the upcoming presidential election – the first one since he assumed power in the Central African nation.
He ousted his cousin Ali Bongo, who assumed office in 2009 after the passing of his father, Omar Bongo Ondimba, who ruled for 41 years.
Since assuming power, General Nguema has aimed to reassure the public that his military government is working in their best interests.
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However, it is reported that General Nguema himself owns several properties in the US, and when questioned about them in recent years, he has emphasized the importance of respecting his privacy.
Nevertheless, it is believed that the new holiday restrictions will also be enforced on General Nguema although he will likely be permitted to travel abroad for official duties.
The specifics of the new holiday regulations were announced on state television, with the audience informed that the objective was to “immerse” government officials “in the realities and expectations of their fellow citizens.”
Yet, he has not made any public statements regarding his potential candidacy for the country’s highest position in the 2025 elections.
The news of the holiday restrictions surfaces days before the first anniversary of the coup, a time when the junta’s performance will undoubtedly be closely examined.
General Nguema may be aiming to create positive comparisons with the former leader he displaced, Mr. Bongo, who was known for frequent international travels and whose family possessed various properties in France and the UK.
