Former Gabonese President Ali Bongo, along with two of his sons, has initiated a hunger strike to protest what their lawyers claim is their mistreatment, including alleged acts of torture and barbarity, following last year’s military coup that ousted Mr. Bongo from power.
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Since the coup in August 2023, Mr. Bongo has been confined to his residence in the capital city of Libreville, along with his sons Jalil and Bilal.
Additionally, his wife Sylvia Bongo and eldest son Noureddin have been imprisoned, awaiting trial on corruption charges.
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According to their legal representatives, Noureddin and Sylvia have faced physical abuse while in detention. Allegations include beatings, strangulation, and electrocution with a taser.
Gabonese authorities have yet to respond to these allegations.
Ali Bongo, aged 64, had governed the oil-rich nation since 2009, succeeding his father, who held power for over four decades.
The family’s legal team has also taken their case to the Paris judicial court, coinciding with the upcoming visit of Gabon’s junta leader, General Brice Oligui Nguema, to France.
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