LIBREVILLE, Gabon — Omar Bongo, the world’s longest-serving president whose 42-year rule of Gabon was a throwback to an era when Africa was ruled by “Big Men,” died Monday. He was 73.
The government responded to Bongo’s death at a hospital in Spain by closing Gabon’s international airport and the nation’s land and sea borders. Security forces took up positions in front of government buildings and electrical installations in Libreville, the capital.
People rushed home after the news was announced, causing traffic jams. Some residents could be seen hurrying out with empty bags, apparently to stock up on food in advance of possible store closures.
Gabon’s constitution calls for the Senate leader to assume power and organize presidential elections within 90 days of Bongo’s death. But there has been speculation that one of Bongo’s sons — who is defense minister — would try to seize power upon his father’s death, as happened in nearby Togo.
Bongo had kept a tight grip on power in the oil-rich former French colony since he became president in 1967, and his ruling party has dominated parliament for decades.
Opposition parties were only allowed in 1990, amid a wave of pro-democracy protests.
