Gabon’s interim president, General Oligui Nguema, has introduced new restrictions on government officials, banning them from taking vacations abroad. This move is part of a broader effort to limit official holiday leave to just one week.
The new policy comes as speculation increases that Gen Nguema might run for president in the upcoming elections. Gen Nguema, who took power in a coup one year ago, replaced his cousin, Ali Bongo, who had been president since 2009. The announcement of the holiday restrictions comes shortly before the anniversary of the coup, a period when the junta’s performance is likely to be under intense scrutiny.
The restrictions appear to be a strategic move to distance Gen Nguema from his predecessor, who was known for frequent foreign trips and whose family owned multiple properties abroad. In contrast, Gen Nguema’s own international properties, including those in the United States, have been a point of contention. He has defended his private life but indicated that these new restrictions will likely apply to him as well.
Exceptions to the new holiday rules will only be made in cases of extreme necessity or for health reasons. The interim government has stated that these measures are intended to ensure officials are more attuned to the needs and expectations of Gabonese citizens. The details of the policy were announced on state television, reflecting Gen Nguema’s commitment to demonstrating a more grounded leadership style.
