Since gaining independence from France in 1960, Gabon has seen three leaders at its helm.

The first leader was Leon M'Ba, who assumed the presidency in 1961. M'Ba was known for his conservative stance and strong pro-France inclinations. During his time in office, he gradually adopted a more authoritarian approach to governance.

Getty Images Leon M'Ba held the presidency from 1961-67

In 1964, a coup d'état temporarily ousted him from power, but a French intervention swiftly reinstated him as president. Unfortunately, Leon M'Ba's presidency was short-lived, as he passed away three years later.

Following his death, Omar Bongo assumed the presidency and ruled for an impressive period of over four decades until his passing in 2009.

Bongo is Gabon's longest serving leader, Credit: Getty Images

Throughout his tenure, Gabon maintained a remarkably close relationship with France, operating within a framework commonly referred to as "Francafrique." This arrangement involved the Gabonese government receiving political and military backing in exchange for various business concessions and favors.

Tensions emerged in the relationship between the two nations when Ali Bongo, Omar Bongo's son, secured a contested victory in the 2009 election. This contentious outcome led to a protracted investigation into allegations of corruption related to the Bongo family's assets.

Bongo is currently under house arrest after the country's military launched a coup, Credit: Getty Images

In 2018, Bongo experienced a stroke that incapacitated him for nearly a year, prompting calls for him to consider stepping aside from leadership.

However, Bongo chose to disregard these calls and proceeded to run for re-election. Surprisingly, he secured re-election on a Saturday, but the army has since declared the results of this election null and void.