Image source, Ali Bongo Image caption,

Ali Bongo managed to release a video from house arrest, calling for help

By Thomas Naadi & Paul Njie

BBC News, Libreville & Yaounde

Gabon's military leaders say they have freed deposed President Ali Bongo from house arrest, where he has been since they seized power last week.

This includes permission to travel abroad for medical check-ups.

He suffered a stroke in 2018 and his health was a major source of concern for many in the build-up to the 2023 presidential election.

The army seized power shortly after he had been declared the winner of that election, disputed by the opposition.

The announcement to free Mr Bongo follows pressure from regional bloc Eccas and neighbouring countries.

Africa Live: Updates on this and other stories from the continent

Ali Bongo: The playboy prince now under house arrest

Why young Africans are celebrating military takeovers

In a communique read on state TV on Wednesday evening, military spokesperson Col Ulrich Manfoumbi said the decision to free Mr Bongo was due to "his state of health".