Gabon's President Oligui Nguema considers initiating government into Ndjobi tradition

This announcement was made in Ontala, where the President stated he would return with his government for this initiation. The Ndjobi tradition, which involves an oath where breaking one's word is believed to lead to spiritual sanctions, has historical precedents in Gabonese politics. Former President Omar Bongo previously mandated Ndjobi initiation for high-ranking officials and close collaborators in the 1970s, turning a voluntary practice into a political obligation.

This practice was seen as a "political contract" to ensure loyalty and consolidate power. While Gabonese ministers already take an institutional oath to uphold the Constitution and demonstrate loyalty to the Head of State, as established under Ali Bongo and continued by Oligui Nguema, the President's recent statement raises questions about the role of traditional oaths in modern governance. Some analysts have previously suggested incorporating traditional oaths like Ndjobi or Mwiri into republican ceremonies to reinforce political promises, given that constitutions can be revised and political pledges forgotten.

Oligui Nguema's investiture in May 2025 already blended republican and traditional elements. The potential initiation of the government into Ndjobi prompts discussion on whether this aims to strengthen loyalty, add a spiritual dimension