Oligui Nguema celebrates Liberation Day in Makokou wearing Sankara attire

This symbolic choice, referencing the former Burkinabe leader, highlighted the central role of the Defense and Security Forces in commemorating the "Liberation Coup" of August 30, 2023. The event featured a parade involving 3,200 personnel and the decoration of 106 individuals into the National Order of Liberation, with 84 becoming knights and 22 commanders. President Nguema, as Grand Master of the Order, personally decorated the 22 commanders, urging them to uphold honor and loyalty to the nation.

The celebration, themed "wheat wedding anniversary" symbolizing growth and fertility, aimed to position the August 30 event within a broader narrative of Gabon's transformation and the refoundation of the rule of law after a decade of "trauma." The military parade showcased discipline with 15 motorcycles and 240 vehicles, followed by a civilian procession of associations and organizations, emphasizing the national scope of the "Liberation." Makokou, in the Ogooué-Ivindo province, hosted the event, drawing attention to its infrastructure and economic potential, including the Bélinga iron project.

The ceremony concluded with patriotic songs and national colors, reinforcing the image of a president who, for the parade, returned to his military roots.