In a statement issued on July 18, 2025, Bongo dismissed the leadership structure established on March7, 2024 as “an illegal and self-proclaimed directorate”.

That leadership, under Ali Akbar Onanga Y’Obegue, had taken control of the party with the aim of reorganising its structures and preparing for future elections. Bongo, however, made it clear that he does not recognise their authority.

To reinforce his position, the former head of state announced sweeping changes within the party, a process that began on May 14, 2025, before he travelled abroad for medical treatment. His announcement has stirred fresh tensions within the PDG.

The rival faction, led by Blaise Louembé, has rejected Bongo’s stance, with both camps now locked in a bitter power struggle.

Political analyst Jean Donald Taladzi noted, “This situation exposes a deep fracture within the PDG. While Ali Bongo is attempting to reclaim his political influence, the resistance from other party leaders shows that the PDG remains highly divided. It is a reflection of the broader instability that has taken hold of Gabon’s political landscape since the regime change.”

--ChannelAfrica--