10 interesting facts about Gabon’s deposed President, Ali Bongo

The military in Gabon, intervened in the political affairs of the country by claiming power early today.

Here are some facts about Ali Bongo, the deposed president.

1. The 64-year-old Ali Bongo was president of Gabon from 2009 until 30 August 2023 when the military deposed him after winning a controversial third term.
2. Ali Bongo’s father, Omar Bongo, was president of Gabon from 1967 until his death in 2009. This makes it 54 years since the Bongos have been ruling Gabon.
3. During his father’s presidency, Ali Bongo was the Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1989 to 1991, parliamentarian, from 1991 to 1999, and Minister of Defense from 1999 to 2009. After his father’s death, he won the 2009 Gabonese presidential election.
4. Ali Bongo’s third term re-election held on August 26, 2023 amid controversial circumstances where the government cut off the internet during votes collation, put a curfew in place, citing the risk of violence. His main opponent in the election, is Albert Ondo Ossa.
5. Ali Bongo studied law but has a passion for music. In 1977, he released a funk album, A Brand New Man, produced by Charles Bobbit.
6. In February 1992, he facilitated the visit of legendary pop singer, Michael Jackson to Gabon.
7. Ali Bongo’s father, until his death, had 70 bank accounts, 39 apartments, 2 Ferraris, 6 Mercedes Benz cars, 3 Porsches and a Bugatti in France.
8. There have been rumors of his being Omar Bongo’s adopted son in Gabon. Others added he is a Nigerian. The claims are unsubstantiated.
9. Ali Bongo is married to his wife, Sylvia Valentin. They have four children.
10. His mother’s name is Josephine Kama, later changed to Patience Dabany.

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