US following military power grab in Gabon 'very, very closely'

By Michael Hernandez

WASHINGTON (AA) - The US is following "very, very closely" the military takeover in the central African nation of Gabon that saw President Ali Bongo ousted and placed under house arrest.

"We're following this very, very closely, this attempted military takeover, certainly the latest in a region that's been rocked by attempted coup d'etats, and unconstitutional power grabs. And, again, it's deeply concerning to us," National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby told reporters.

"We will remain a supporter of the people of the region, supporter of the people of Gabon, and on their demand for democratic governance, of course. But we're gonna stay focused on continuing to work with our African partners and all the people on the continent to address challenges, and to support democracy," he added.

Military officers seized power Wednesday after Bongo was declared the winner in Saturday’s election, securing a third term in office.

A statement from Gabon's military read on state television by the Committee for the Transition and Restoration of Institutions (CTRI) said Bongo is being kept "under house arrest, surrounded by his family and doctors."

The African Union strongly condemned the “attempted coup” and urged the military to guarantee Bongo's health and the security of his family and those in government.