Gabon fully rejoins the Commonwealth after a year in limbo
Gabon has officially rejoined the Commonwealth after a year-long suspension triggered by the country’s August 2023 “Liberation coup.”
The decision, announced on September 22, follows a phased reintegration process that began in July and culminated in the full lifting of sanctions.
Foreign ministers from Commonwealth member states approved Gabon’s return during a meeting held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The move restores Gabon to full participation in the organisation it first joined in June 2022.
Officials in Libreville say the country’s reinstatement is recognition of a successful political transition marked by a peaceful constitutional referendum and a presidential election widely described as free and transparent. Gabon’s military leaders had promised a swift return to civilian rule following the coup, which ended decades of one-party dominance.
The Commonwealth had suspended Gabon in 2023 in response to what it called a violation of democratic principles. The suspension froze the country’s participation in official meetings and restricted access to technical support and assistance programs.
Now, the country is looking to re-engage with the Commonwealth’s development agenda, trade opportunities, and diplomatic networks.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
