The junta spokesperson Col Ulrich Manfoumbi in an announcement on Wednesday
said Gen Nguema took the decision because he was “aware of the social
emergencies and many expectations of the Gabonese people”.

Apart from renouncing his salary as president, Gen Nguema, who became the
interim president following the overthrow of President Ali Bongo in August this year,
also decided to reduce public spending by slashing the allowances for lawmakers,
eliminating political funds, and cutting session allowances.

Deposed President Bongo’s 14-year rule was marred by allegations of corruption
and other financial scandals, with the junta saying the country’s finances were
“victim of a real criminal fury”.