Gabon has officially lifted the curfew imposed after the military coup that brought General Brice Oligui Nguema to power in August 2023. The decision, announced on Wednesday, aims to allow citizens to celebrate the upcoming end-of-year holidays freely, according to an official decree.
The decree also emphasized that defense and security forces would continue to uphold order and security in adherence to the rule of law.
The announcement comes shortly after criticism erupted over a “crackdown operation” by the national gendarmerie in Libreville last Saturday. Dozens of young people were arrested for violating the curfew, with some alleging they were subjected to punitive head shaving. Similar actions had previously targeted individuals deemed to have insulted the president, spread fear, or led labor strikes.
The curfew, initially eased for several months, was tightened in early October during the electoral campaign for a constitutional referendum. Its reinstatement had frustrated nightlife enthusiasts and impacted sectors reliant on evening activities.
According to the defense ministry, lifting the curfew reflects the government’s intent to ensure citizens can enjoy the holidays and to support economic operators across all sectors.
The decision follows the adoption of a new constitution in November and ongoing consultations to revise the electoral code. These efforts are part of preparations for presidential, legislative, and local elections in 2025, marking the end of Gabon’s transitional period since the overthrow of the Bongo dynasty.
General Oligui, who has pledged to restore civilian rule, has not ruled out pursuing his own presidential ambitions.