The Chairperson of the African Union Commission is profoundly grieved and saddened by the passing away of His Excellency Omar Bongo Ondimba, President of the Republic of Gabon.

On behalf of the entire Commission and on his own behalf, Dr. Jean Ping conveys to the family of the illustrious leader and especially his children and the People and Government of Gabon, his sincere condolences and deepest sympathy.

The Commission would like to pay tribute to a great Head of State and Africa’s longest serving leader, who made a mark on the Continent’s history by his rich experience and his numerous and untiring contributions to peace efforts in his country, the Central Africa sub-region and the continent, all of which earned him acknowledgement from his peers and the international community.

The stability and peace which he bequeaths to Gabon are invaluable and a source of pride to all the Gabonese people. It is also a legacy that will be engraved on the hearts of Gabonese and all Africans, who will remember President Bongo as a very generous and peace-loving person, who devoted his political fight to strengthening the sovereignty and development of his country, the well being and dignity of the Gabonese people as well as the emancipation of Africa, while advocating values like respect, conciliation and dialogue.

Africa is mourning one of its greatest sons. On this sad occasion, Africans should all reaffirm their determination to continue to work for peace and stability, causes to which the deceased dedicated his life and invested countless efforts to promote.

AU Commission