Gabon’s capital, Libreville, was awash in celebration on Thursday, as citizens took to the streets to celebrate the apparent overthrow of President Ali Bongo Ondimba.
Soldiers were seen handing out flowers to women and children, and people were seen hugging and taking pictures with them.
“We are free!” one woman shouted. “We are finally free!”
The coup began on Tuesday when a group of soldiers arrested Bongo and took control of the government. Bongo has been in power since 2009, and his rule has been marked by corruption and mismanagement.
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The coup has been met with widespread support from the Gabonese people, who are tired of Bongo’s rule.
“We are tired of living in poverty,” said one man. “We are tired of being ruled by a dictator.”
The coup leaders have promised to hold free and fair elections in the coming months. They have also promised to crack down on corruption and improve the lives of ordinary Gabonese citizens.