Josep Borrell, the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, announced on Thursday that there are no immediate plans to evacuate EU citizens residing in Gabon. The statement comes amid political unrest following the country’s disputed presidential elections, which led to the closing of its borders.
Speaking to the English service of France 24 news channel, Borrell acknowledged that the upheaval in the African nation ensued from a contentious election, marred by irregularities. However, he did not provide further details on the matter.
The military in Gabon had declared on Wednesday the indefinite closure of the country’s borders and dissolution of state institutions. This came after President Ali Bongo was announced as the winner of a third term in office in the recent presidential elections.
The political atmosphere in Gabon has been fraught with tension following presidential elections that many consider flawed. The country has a history of political instability, made worse by issues like inequality and corruption. EU citizens, mainly residing in Gabon for work or diplomatic reasons, are often caught in the crossfire of local politics, especially during periods of unrest. The EU maintains diplomatic ties with Gabon, and the absence of an evacuation plan signals a wait-and-see approach, likely hinging on diplomatic efforts to stabilize the situation. The European Union has been monitoring the political developments in Gabon closely, given its broader strategy to enhance cooperation with African nations. This recent development underlines the challenges facing international communities residing in politically unstable regions.
The European Union has often been called upon to play a more active role in crisis situations in Africa, but its current stance on Gabon indicates a cautious approach, likely pending more definitive developments in the local political landscape.
