Gabon’s President Omar Bongo Dies Following Heart Attack

Gabon’s President Omar Bongo has died following a heart attack he suffered while at a Spanish clinic on Monday. Bongo, Africa’s longest serving leader, was 73-years-old.

Bongo’s death was confirmed by Prime Minister Jean Eyeghe Ndong who said Gabon would observe 30 days of mourning and encouraged citizens to “stand together in contemplation and dignity.” Bongo had been in Barcelona since May following an undisclosed illness.

To ensure safety in the country the defense ministry, headed by Bongo’s son Ali-Ben Bongo, closed Gabon’s air, land and sea borders and placed added security around sensitive buildings. Many believe Ali-Ben will succeed his father but according to the country’s constitution the leader of the Senate, Rose Francine Rogombe, is to become the interim leader and hold elections within 45 days.

It has been 42 years since Bongo took control of the country, a former French colony, and during his time in office he appeared to hold a tight grip on the oil money his country brought in. He had been investigated by a French judge for embezzling large sums, a charge he consistently denied.

Despite the charges French President Nicolas Sarkozy offered his support to the country stating France would be “standing by the people of Gabon and its institutions, at this difficult time.”

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