Former AU Chair, Jean Ping charged with imprisoning and torturing people, after his home was attacked

Gabon's leading opposition figure and former AU Head, Jean Ping has been charged with imprisoning and torturing people who attacked his home.

He risks up to 10 years in prison and possible elimination from the 2016 Presidential election.

Jean Ping, 72, was charged with illegal imprisonment, inhuman treatment and torture of some of the people who threw rocks at his residence.

Mr Ping who is the Head of an Opposition Coalition said his house was attacked by at least 200 people, sent by an adviser to President Ali Bongo.

He said one of them was armed with a poisoned knife.But the government has denied the accusation.

Mr Ping, who has not been taken into custody, is not immediately available to comment on the charges.

REUTERS