Gabon’s millitary leader renounces presidential salary

Gabon’s military leader, General Brice Oligui Nguema has turned down the presidential salary to be given to him stating that he only wants to receive his wages as Commander of the republican guard, Gabon’s TV reported.

The Junta spokesman Colonel Ulrich Manfoumbi made the announcement on October 18, 2023.

According to BBC Africa reports, the spokesman said; “General Nguema is aware of the social emergencies and many expectations of the Gabonese people.”

“Each day that passes allows the junta to become more aware of the general state of deterioration of the country and of the public finances in particular,” the spokesman is reported by BBC Africa to have stated.

Still going by the reports, apart from renouncing his salary as president, General Nguema also decided to reduce public spending by slashing the allowances for lawmakers, eliminating political funds and cutting sessions allowances.

The Junta leader became president after he led a coup that ousted President Ali Bongo from power.