By John Ikani
Gabon’s Junta leader received a warm welcome from The Congo’s Prime Minister upon his arrival at Ollombo international airport on Sunday.
General Brice Oligui Nguema, who recently assumed power following a change of government in Gabon, held discussions with Congo President Denis Sassou Nguesso to enhance bilateral relations and address Gabon’s international isolation in the aftermath of the coup.
“I have come to consult, to discuss, to exchange with (the president), who for us is a key figure in the region, capable of representing our actions on the global stage,” Oligui stated after the talks held near Oyo in central Congo.
He further emphasized, “It is also to ease the sanctions… we hope to regain our place among the nations.”
Gabon had faced suspension from both the African Union and the Economic Community of Central Africa States (ECCAS) following the change of leadership, with ECCAS relocating its headquarters from Gabon’s Libreville to Equatorial Guinea’s Malabo.
While President Denis Sassou Nguesso did not address reporters after the discussions, his Foreign Minister Jean-Claude Gakosso praised Oligui as “a man of humility and reconciliation.”
Gakosso urged support not only from Gabonese citizens but also from Congolese and their central African neighbours.
“We know that there was a change in Libreville,” Gakosso acknowledged. “The main thing is that there was no bloodshed.” He highlighted the rare occurrence of a forceful change of regime without violence.
Gakosso emphasized the need for closer ties, stating, “The Congo and Gabon are, in reality, the same country. We have to work tirelessly to maintain good relations.”
General Brice Oligui Nguema’s visit to the Republic of Congo marked his second overseas trip since being sworn in as Gabon’s interim president.
His ascent to power, following the ousting of Ali Bongo Ondimba, has been viewed by many in Gabon as a liberation rather than a military coup.
Oligui has pledged to hold “free, transparent, and credible elections” to restore civilian rule but has not provided a specific timeframe.
