French Ecologists criticize France's support for Gabon's 'authoritarian' regime during Oligui Nguema's visit to Paris

During President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema's state visit to France, the French political party Les Écologistes The Ecologists issued a strong critique on July 20, condemning France's decision to grant high honors to the Gabonese head of state. In a statement signed by Aminata Niakaté, spokesperson and member of the party's Transnational Commission, the opposition group argued that the government, which came to power through a coup in August 2023, has deviated from its initial commitments to democracy, public freedoms, and the rule of law. Les Écologistes expressed deep concern that Paris's reception of Oligui Nguema might be seen as an endorsement of a regime whose political practices are increasingly criticized. They highlighted that the military, which overthrew Ali Bongo Ondimba, had justified their intervention by promising to restore democratic institutions and return power to civilians, but nearly three years later, these promises have been "largely betrayed." The party believes the transition period has not strengthened democratic institutions but rather consolidated a new power centered around General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema. They denounced repeated violations of the Transition Charter, controversies surrounding the Inclusive National Dialogue, and the organization of the constitutional referendum and presidential and legislative elections. The Ecologists specifically questioned the presidential election results, where the head of state reportedly secured near