Central African States Lift Sanctions, Reintegrate Gabon into Regional Bloc

The Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) decided to lift sanctions on Gabon and reintegrate it into the regional bloc, marking a significant development six months after suspending its membership in response to a coup that ousted President Ali Bongo.

The decision was made during a meeting in neighbouring Equatorial Guinea, confirmed by Gabon’s Foreign Minister Regis Onanga Ndiaye in a televised address late on Saturday.

Although there was no official statement from ECCAS, Burundi’s Foreign Minister Albert Shingiro confirmed the agreement to lift sanctions at the meeting. Following the August 30 coup, ECCAS suspended Gabon’s membership and participation in all related activities until the restoration of constitutional order.

While the junta remains in power, it announced plans to hold elections in August 2025, signaling a commitment to a democratic transition.

Source: Reuters