Omar Bongo Quotes

A collection of quotes by Omar Bongo.

Omar Bongo (1935-2009) was the President of Gabon for over four decades, from 1967 until his death in 2009. Born as Albert-Bernard Bongo, he changed his name after converting to Islam. Bongo played a significant role in shaping Gabon's political landscape, maintaining stability and promoting economic development during his long tenure. However, his presidency was also marred by allegations of corruption and human rights abuses. Bongo was known for his pan-Africanist views and played a key role in regional politics, serving as the chairman of the Organization of African Unity (now African Union) from 1990 to 1991.

For about ten years now, the struggle for democracy and the

For about ten years now, the struggle for democracy and the respect of human rights has been in the focus point - if not a commodity - of political groups aiming to rise to power.

But the Western countries that link their partnership with t

But the Western countries that link their partnership with the poorest countries with respect for democracy also have to consider that they have obligations towards these countries.

Respect

I'm not aiming for the Nobel Peace Prize!

I'm not aiming for the Nobel Peace Prize!

Peace

I am in favor of complete freedom of information and of free

I am in favor of complete freedom of information and of free access to the new communication tools, in particular the Internet.

Communication

But since independence, Gabon is one of the few countries in

But since independence, Gabon is one of the few countries in Central Africa that enjoys peace and stability.

Peace

It is up to African leaders to show their will and political

It is up to African leaders to show their will and political courage in order to assure that this new pan-African institution becomes an efficient instrument and not a place for endless discussions.

Courage

The free market economy is supposed to be the only path lead

The free market economy is supposed to be the only path leading to the happiness of humanity by promoting wealth and prosperity, power and influence of nations.

Happiness

My actions to promote peace, the mediation missions which I

My actions to promote peace, the mediation missions which I carried out during many conflicts, which very often occurred between brothers of the same country, are not driven by any ulterior motives or any calculations based on personal ambitions.

Peace

When they favor the access of other people to education and

When they favor the access of other people to education and health care, the countries of the North not only demonstrate generosity or solidarity, but also implement the principles of respecting and promoting human rights.

Education