How did Ali Bongo become president of Gabon in 2009?

Ali Bongo became president of Gabon in 2009 following the death of his father, longtime president Omar Bongo, on June 8, 2009.12

After the death of the elder Bongo, Senate President Rose Francine Rogombé was sworn in as interim president, and a presidential election was scheduled for August 30, 2009. Ali Ben Bongo, who was serving as defense minister, was selected as the candidate for the Gabonese Democratic Party (PDG).12

Following the election, Ali Bongo was declared the winner with slightly more than two-fifths of the vote, though the results were delayed and faced widespread allegations of fraud and voting irregularities. These claims led to protests and clashes between demonstrators and security forces. Opposition groups requested a recount, but the results were upheld in October, and Ali Bongo was inaugurated on October 16, 2009.12