Gabon will hold presidential elections on March 22, 2025, as announced by General Brice Oliqui Nguema. A new constitution was adopted last year, restricting presidential terms to two seven-year periods. Nguema has not confirmed if he will run, amidst opposition from rights activists regarding his candidacy.
On Thursday, General Brice Oliqui Nguema, Gabon’s military leader, announced that presidential elections are scheduled to take place on March 22 of this year. This announcement follows the recent approval of a new constitution in Gabon, which establishes a two-term limit for the president, each lasting seven years. As of now, General Nguema has not declared whether he intends to run for the presidency. Gabonese rights activist Franck Jocktane has expressed opposition towards General Nguema’s potential candidacy, indicating a contentious political atmosphere leading up to the elections.
Gabon is currently transitioning from military rule following a coup, with the introduction of a new constitution aimed at fostering democratic governance. This constitution aims to limit future presidential terms, ostensibly to prevent the abuse of power. The upcoming elections represent a pivotal moment for Gabon, as they will determine the leadership structure moving forward. The opposition’s stance against General Nguema running highlights the challenges faced in re-establishing a multi-party political system in the country.
In conclusion, the announcement of the presidential elections in Gabon marks a critical step towards restoring democratic processes following military rule. The new constitutional provisions are designed to limit presidential tenure, fostering a shift towards accountability. However, the potential candidacy of General Nguema is met with opposition, suggesting that the political landscape remains highly charged and complex as the election date approaches.
Original Source: www.voaafrica.com
