YAOUNDE, CAMEROON – A U.S. delegation led by Ambassador Vernelle Trim FitzPatrick recently met with Gabon’s military ruler, General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, to discuss the need for a swift return to constitutional order in the country. This meeting comes six months after the nation’s August 30 coup, and the U.S. delegation reiterated their support for the people of Gabon and their desire to see democracy and stability restored.
Despite the ongoing political turmoil, the U.S. remains committed to strengthening economic and diplomatic relations with Gabon. This was emphasized by Ambassador FitzPatrick, who stated that the U.S. will continue to reinforce trade and commercial ties with the Central African state, despite the sanctions imposed on the coup leaders.
During the meeting, General Nguema pleaded for the U.S. sanctions to be lifted, and Ambassador FitzPatrick assured him that the U.S. will closely monitor the situation and take necessary actions as the situation progresses. She also mentioned that the U.S. is willing to assist with the transition to civilian rule, but did not provide details on how this would be done.
Since becoming the U.S. ambassador to Gabon just a month ago, FitzPatrick has shown a deep understanding of the situation in the country and has been working tirelessly to find ways to support its people. She reiterated the U.S.’s commitment to Gabon, stating that it is important for the two nations to continue discussions on strengthening trade and commercial relations. This will also help gain the support of the U.S. Congress in fostering ties with Gabon.
The U.S. has been closely monitoring the events in Gabon since the coup on August 30, and has been vocal about the need for a quick return to constitutional order. In response to the coup, Washington suspended most non-humanitarian aid and urged for a swift restoration of democracy. The U.S. has also called for an inclusive national dialogue, which is expected to take place in April, as a step towards ensuring free and fair elections in the future.
The military rulers in Gabon have announced that elections will be held in August 2025, after the national dialogue and a period of transition. However, for the opposition parties and many Gabonese citizens, this timeline is unacceptable. Nembe Patrice, an economic adviser at Alternance 2023, a group of opposition parties created in 2023 to fight for political change in Gabon, believes that the people of Gabon deserve to have their voice heard and to participate in free and fair elections. He also expressed the hope that the U.S. will advise General Nguema to not run for office in the upcoming elections.
As the situation in Gabon remains uncertain, the U.S. has reaffirmed its support for the country and its people. The U.S. stands with Gabon in its efforts to restore democracy and stability, and will continue to closely monitor the situation. The U.S. also remains committed to helping Gabon in any way possible, whether it be through economic support or providing guidance and advice during the transition to civilian rule.
In conclusion, the U.S. delegation’s recent meeting with General Nguema and their commitment to reinforcing ties with Gabon reaffirms the strong relationship between the two nations. The U.S. remains hopeful for a peaceful and democratic resolution to the political crisis in Gabon and will continue to support the country and its people in their pursuit of a brighter future.
