Gabon: ‘Femmes Braves’March Stopped Amid Administrative and Security Concerns BODY: MOUILA, Gabon – The “Femmes Braves “movement’s march from Mouila to Libreville was halted by authorities 27 kilometers from the city center, following allegations of non-compliance with administrative procedures and security concerns.
The march, initiated on July 15, 2026, aimed to express support for President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema and his wife, Zita Oligui Nguema, and to highlight the role of women in Gabonese society. Emerole Mounganga Lefendi, the president of “Femmes Braves, “led the march, which was intended to be peaceful, citizen-led, and joyous.
However, the participants were stopped by administrative authorities and the defense and security forces.
The prefect of the Douya — Onoye department, Alphonse Ndemé, who was acting as the interim governor of Ngounié, cited the lack of a response from the governor’s office and the absence of medical personnel as reasons for the interruption. Ndemé explained that the marchers had initiated the walk without waiting for a response to their request for authorization, which was in violation of the law on public meetings and demonstrations. He also mentioned the absence of security measures, such as medical personnel and police escort, as contributing factors to the decision to halt the march.
Despite the interruption, the movement’s president emphasized that the march was not a demand but a show of support and determination. Following discussions between the movement’s leaders and the prefect, several suggestions were made, including addressing a letter to the First Lady’s office and organizing a march in Mouila with increased media coverage.
The incident underscores the challenges faced by feminist movements in Gabon and across Africa, particularly in terms of public demonstrations and political activism. It also highlights the complex balance between social activism, political engagement, and security considerations in contemporary Gabon.
The future of the “Femmes Braves “movement remains uncertain, as it navigates the complexities of advocating for gender equality and combating violence against women in the country.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Agpgabon
Source: Redaction
