Voters in Gabon participated in their first presidential election since the 2023 military coup, with General Oligui Nguema seeking to consolidate power against rival Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze. The election reflects the ongoing tension between military authority and aspirations for civilian governance amid socio-economic challenges.
On Saturday, voters in Gabon participated in a presidential election, the first since the military coup in 2023. This election serves as a significant moment for the military leaders who aim to solidify their authority. Approximately 920,000 citizens, including over 28,000 from abroad, are eligible to vote at more than 3,000 polling stations, amid a backdrop of widespread poverty affecting a third of the country’s 2.3 million population.
General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, who led the coup against President Ali Bongo Ondimba, seeks to extend his power for a seven-year term. Following the coup, Bongo was briefly placed under house arrest, while his family faced corruption charges, although he himself was not charged. Nguema has pledged to restore civilian governance through credible elections, advocating for unity among Gabonese people under the campaign slogan “We Build Together.”
Eight candidates are contesting in this election, with Oligui Nguema’s primary rival being former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze. Bilie-By-Nze has outlined a reform agenda focusing on public finances and employment for youth, while hoping to sever ties with France, Gabon’s former colonial ruler. He expressed skepticism about the election’s fairness, stating, “Everything has been done to lock down the vote.”
Despite maintaining a military presence in Gabon, Oligui Nguema has not indicated any intention of withdrawing French troops. Bilie-By-Nze has asserted that all topics, including military collaboration, are open for negotiation. Voting commenced successfully in Libreville, with citizens lining up to cast their ballots peacefully. Voters expressed mixed sentiments about the military leadership, with some advocating for a return to civilian rule, while others supported the current regime for delivering progress within a short time frame.
The Gabonese presidential election marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s political landscape following a military coup. With General Oligui Nguema seeking to affirm his power and his main opponent challenging the status quo, the electoral outcome could redefine Gabon’s political ties and governance for years to come. Citizens are hopeful for a fair and transparent election while grappling with past grievances against military rule.
Original Source: www.news4jax.com
