Gabon's military leadership has officially declared the cessation of the house arrest of ousted President Ali Bongo, asserting that he is now permitted to move freely.

In a statement broadcast on state television on Wednesday evening, Colonel Ulrich Manfoumbi, the military spokesperson, cited concerns for his health as the basis for the decision to release Mr. Bongo.

"He may, if he wishes, travel abroad for medical check-ups," he added.

After the military orchestrated a coup on August 30th, they detained the former president in his residence and proclaimed their authority over the oil-rich nation.

The choice to release him comes in response to mounting pressure from the Central African regional alliance, ECCAS, as well as neighboring countries of Gabon, urging the preservation of the ousted head of state's physical well-being.

In 2018, Mr. Bongo experienced a stroke, which raised significant apprehension among many in the lead-up to the presidential election of 2023 regarding his health.