Brice Oligui Nguema, Gabon’s military leader, will compete in the presidential election against Alain-Claude Bilie By Nze, Joseph Lapensee Essingone, and Stéphane Germain Iloko Boussengui. Only four candidates were approved from 23 applicants. Oligui plans to transition power to civilians and will campaign as an independent starting March 29, with elections scheduled for April 12, 2025.
Gabon’s military leader, Brice Oligui Nguema, is set to participate in the presidential election scheduled for April 12, 2025. He will face three other candidates, as per the final list published on Sunday. Notably, Alain-Claude Bilie By Nze, the last prime minister under ousted leader Ali Bongo Ondimba, is regarded as his most formidable rival.
In addition to Mr. By Nze, Oligui will contend against lawyer and tax inspector Joseph Lapensee Essingone, and physician Stéphane Germain Iloko Boussengui. Interior Minister Hermann Immongault revealed that out of 23 applicants, only four candidates were approved, while the remaining 19 were rejected without given reasons—these candidates retain the right to appeal to the Constitutional Court.
Oligui, who declared his candidacy on March 3, has assured a transition of power to civilian governance following a temporary period. The newly implemented electoral code permits military personnel to run for political office, facilitating Oligui’s presidential aspirations. He officially submitted his candidacy on Saturday and announced he would stand as an independent candidate.
Campaign activities are slated to commence on March 29; although, a date for a potential second-round run-off has yet to be established.
In conclusion, Brice Oligui Nguema will face significant challenges in the upcoming presidential election, contending against prominent figures such as Alain-Claude Bilie By Nze. The electoral process is set in motion with a newly passed code allowing military candidates, and campaigning will begin soon. The political landscape remains dynamic as appeals against candidate rejections may emerge, shaping the election further.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
