In Gabon, General Brice Oligui Nguema, the transitional president following a recent military coup that ousted President Ali Bongo, has appointed Raymond Ndong Sima as the transitional Prime Minister.

This decision was conveyed through a decree broadcast on state television. Raymond Ndong Sima, aged 68, served as Prime Minister under Ali Bongo from 2012 to 2014 but distanced himself from the administration, frequently criticizing its governance.

He even ran against Ali Bongo in the presidential elections of 2016 and 2023.

ALSO READ: Military junta allows former Gabonese president Ali Bongo to travel for treatment

General Oligui, the leader of the coup that took place on August 30, claimed that Ali Bongo’s re-election was fraudulent, prompting the military intervention.

He was sworn in as President of the transitional period and pledged to hold free elections at the end of this unspecified duration.

General Oligui announced the formation of a transitional government that includes individuals from various political backgrounds on Monday.