Gabon: National Council for Rituals and Traditions Denounces Smear Campaign. LIBREVILLE, Gabon — The Gabonese National Council for Rituals and Traditions held a press conference on December 27, 2025, to denounce a smear campaign against the organization and its president, according to the Gabonese Press Agency.
The council firmly rejected any involvement in ritual crimes and reiterated its commitment to preserving human life.
President Junior Xavier Ndong Ndong criticized the attacks on the institution as manipulative and harmful to public discourse. He argued that the council members, often portrayed negatively, are primarily dedicated to promoting education and defending Gabonese traditional values.
Ndong Ndong also dismissed accusations as false and condemned attempts to link him or the council to violent ritual practices.
The council called for a focus on genuine societal issues, such as tribalism, and highlighted measures taken since its establishment on October 26, 2023, to regulate and preserve authentic Gabonese rituals. These include the prohibition of foreign fetishes.
The president also condemned violence and emphasized the value of human life, rejecting allegations against the ngangas community.
The council expressed determination to protect human life and Gabon’s stability while denouncing defamatory statements made by certain media figures. Further details are expected regarding the ongoing situation and the council’s response to the smear campaign.
