Gabon civil society demands land deal explanation
11 groups want parliament to question ministers over a plot given to the ruling party.
A coalition of Gabonese civil society groups has asked the National Assembly to question government officials about land allocated to the ruling party. The Union for Democracy and Builders (UDB) received a plot in Libreville's Plaine-Orety area. This site was previously declared for public utility, and residents were displaced in 2025.
The groups are demanding answers from Vice-President Hermann Immongault and Habitat Minister Mays Mouissi regarding the land's allocation. They seek clarity on the legal basis, size, and value of the land, as well as the decision-maker's identity. The UDB stated on October 24, 2026, that the land was acquired from competent authorities, but this has not resolved concerns.
The coalition also questions potential site reclassification and conflicts of interest, as the UDB's secretary-general holds a government position in the housing sector. They requested documentation of procedures and information on other beneficiaries. The groups also asked for a temporary halt to construction if necessary and clarification for displaced populations.
Why it mattersGabonese citizens are concerned about the transparency and legality of government land allocation processes, particularly when it affects public utility sites and displaced populations.