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Military coup in Gabon puts China’s economic interests under threat

  • The Bongo family, which has ruled the small African nation since 1967, has been ousted after the military seized power
  • Though the turmoil threatens China’s economic ties there, some experts say long-term it could help reduce France’s influence

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It’s wait and see for China as a military coup in Gabon leaves its economic interests there up in the air. Photo: Reuters
China’s vast economic interests in Gabon are under threat after the military seized power in the oil and mineral-rich nation on Central Africa’s west coast.
But some experts believe the military coup could spell good news for Beijing in the long run, improving China’s opportunity for closer ties in the region as the influence of France falls.
On Wednesday, army officers took power in the tiny country, placing President Ali Bongo Ondimba under house arrest. The coup came just hours after it was announced he had won a third term as leader.
The army has since named General Brice Oligui Nguema, former head of the presidential guard, as the country’s transitional president.

The coup ends a hold on power by the Bongo family of more than five decades. In 2009, Ali Bongo took over the presidency from his father Omar Bongo Ondimba following his death. Omar had ruled the former French colony since 1967.

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China-funded infrastructure across Africa force difficult decisions for its leaders

China-funded infrastructure across Africa force difficult decisions for its leaders

Following the coup, Beijing called on all parties to hold talks while guaranteeing the personal safety of the deposed leader.

Kenyan journalist Jevans Nyabiage is the South China Morning Post's first Africa correspondent. Based in Nairobi, Jevans keeps an eye on China-Africa relations and also Chinese investments, ranging from infrastructure to energy and metal, on the continent.
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