In a poignant reflection of his current state, Ali Bongo, the deposed president of Gabon, expressed feelings of loneliness and despair during a recent interview.
Confined to his villa in Libreville, Bongo’s isolation is compounded by the absence of his family, who remain imprisoned following his ousting in August 2023.
Key Takeaways
- Ali Bongo celebrated his 66th birthday alone, with only his mother for company.
- His wife and son have been imprisoned since the coup, leaving him in a state of emotional distress.
- Bongo’s calls for their release have gone unanswered by the new regime.
A Birthday Marked By Isolation
On February 9, 2025, Ali Bongo marked his 66th birthday in solitude at his lavish villa in La Sablière, Libreville. His only companion was his mother, Joséphine Kama, while his wife Sylvia and son Noureddin remained incarcerated.
Bongo’s other family members, including his sister Pascaline, were unable to visit, highlighting the stark reality of his isolation.
The Weight of Loneliness
Bongo’s loneliness is palpable as he navigates life under house arrest. He lamented, “I’m fed up… Sylvia and Noureddin have been in prison for a year and a half now. They’ve taken everything away from them.
I want them to be here, with me.” His frustration is evident as he recalls the promises made by the current president, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, regarding the release of his family, which have yet to materialize.
Security Measures and Daily Life
The villa, a sprawling compound, is heavily secured, with armed guards and surveillance ensuring Bongo’s confinement.
Despite the luxurious surroundings, the former president’s life is marked by a lack of companionship and support.
He spends his days engaged in solitary activities like solving sudokus and crossword puzzles, a stark contrast to the vibrant political life he once led.
Calls for Justice
Bongo has made several attempts to reach out to the new regime, seeking a meeting with President Oligui. His requests have been met with silence, deepening his sense of abandonment.
He expressed concern for the treatment of his family, asserting that they are subjected to degrading conditions in prison. “Everything my wife is accused of is false,” he stated, defending their integrity against allegations of corruption.
A Bitter Reflection
As night falls, Bongo’s bitterness becomes more pronounced. He reflects on his political party, the Parti Démocratique Gabonais (PDG), and the changes that have occurred since his removal from power. He feels disconnected from the party he once led, lamenting the decisions made in his absence.
Bongo’s story is one of loss, isolation, and a desperate yearning for family and freedom. As he continues to navigate this challenging chapter of his life, the former president remains hopeful for a reunion with his loved ones, despite the overwhelming odds stacked against him.