General Brice Oligui Nguema has officially announced his candidacy for Gabon’s presidential election in April 2025 after receiving approval from the Ministry of National Defense. He will run as an independent under the initiative “The Builders’ Movement” rather than forming a political party. This election will be Gabon’s first after the military coup that deposed President Ali Bongo Ondimba in August 2023, which claimed election irregularities.
General Brice Oligui Nguema, the leader of Gabon’s transition government post-2023 coup, has announced his candidacy for the presidential elections scheduled for April 2025. Nguema formally registered his candidacy at the Ministry of the Interior, marking a pivotal step in Gabon’s political landscape.
Following the military takeover that ended decades of Bongo family rule, Nguema received approval from the Ministry of National Defense, clearing the way for his political ambitions. He expressed his satisfaction, stating, “I am happy today to inform you that the Ministry of National Defense has favourably responded to my availability request,” confirming his eligibility to partake in politics as of February 27, 2025.
Despite earlier suggestions to establish a political party, Nguema intends to run as an independent. He has introduced a political initiative titled “The Builders’ Movement,” and is seeking alliances with various societal factions including political parties, unions, and youth organizations to bolster his vision for Gabon’s future. He stated, “There is no reason to create a party. Time does not allow us to do so. But like the others, I will go as an independent.”
This candidacy symbolizes a crucial phase in Gabon’s move towards civilian governance. Nguema’s leadership has focused on stabilizing the nation following the coup, particularly in view of the upcoming election—the first since the military’s ousting of President Ali Bongo Ondimba in August 2023, which was attributed to election irregularities and governance concerns.
General Brice Nguema’s declaration of candidacy for the April 2025 presidential election signifies a critical juncture for Gabon as it transitions back to a civilian government. His decision to run as an independent underlines his intention to unite various groups under a common vision for the country’s future, while his recent approval from the Ministry of National Defense enhances the legitimacy of his political aspirations. Overall, Nguema’s leadership will be key in shaping Gabon’s political milieu after the coup, as the nation prepares for its first electoral exercise following a significant regime change.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
