Libreville, Gabon — The Interior Ministry has summoned all legally recognised political parties to a meeting on 16 January at 10:00, according to an official communiqué released on 14 January. Minister Adrien Nguema Mba asked each party to send up to two senior representatives to the ministry’s headquarters.
The call comes as authorities prepare to enforce a new political — party law adopted after last year’s National Dialogue.
Official statements indicate the law tightens internal party rules, sets clearer membership procedures and requires organisations to show greater transparency in their finances. Provisions also oblige parties to include people with disabilities in leadership posts and spell out how splinter groups may register.
The ministry has not published a list of parties that currently meet the legal criteria.
Local reports say officials will use Friday’s gathering to explain compliance steps and deadlines. It remains unclear when the new requirements take effect or what penalties parties could face for non-compliance.
Gabon has been led by a transitional military government since the 30 August 2023 coup that ended the Bongo administration.
Junta leaders pledged to rewrite the constitution and update electoral laws before returning power to civilians. Updating party regulations is widely seen as a first stage in that process.
Officials have not indicated how long parties will have to submit updated statutes or when the updated register will be made public.
Further details are expected after the meeting.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
