In what marks a continuing trend of military officers seizing power in Central Africa, General Brice Oligui Nguema has been declared the winner of Gabon's presidential election as he prepares to govern following his earlier coup in 2023.
Military Leader Claims Electoral Victory in Gabon
Military Leader Claims Electoral Victory in Gabon
General Brice Oligui Nguema, who led a coup in 2023, will lead Gabon for the next seven years after winning the presidential election with over 90% of the votes.
General Brice Oligui Nguema celebrated a decisive victory at his campaign headquarters in Libreville on Sunday, with provisional results indicating he garnered more than 90% of the votes cast. This triumph positions the military leader at the helm of Gabon for the next seven years, as he solidifies his grip on power following his successful coup execution last fall.
Former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze, who was the primary contender in this election, accepted defeat on Monday, paving the way for General Nguema. The nation’s Interior Ministry reported on Sunday the overwhelming results, while Gabon's Constitutional Court is anticipated to release official results in the coming days. However, critics and analysts have raised concerns that the electoral process may have been skewed in favor of Nguema.
The victory of General Nguema draws attention to a disturbing pattern within West and Central Africa, where military leaders are regaining political power. Within the last five years, eight coups have rocked the region, emphasizing a trend that seems to have legitimized military interventions in governance. Notably, Mahamat Déby, a military figure in Chad, was declared winner of last year’s presidential elections after seizing power in 2021 following his father's death.
This victory for Nguema marks a significant moment not only for Gabon but also reflects a broader regional challenge regarding governance and the future role of military leaders in civilian political structures.
Former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze, who was the primary contender in this election, accepted defeat on Monday, paving the way for General Nguema. The nation’s Interior Ministry reported on Sunday the overwhelming results, while Gabon's Constitutional Court is anticipated to release official results in the coming days. However, critics and analysts have raised concerns that the electoral process may have been skewed in favor of Nguema.
The victory of General Nguema draws attention to a disturbing pattern within West and Central Africa, where military leaders are regaining political power. Within the last five years, eight coups have rocked the region, emphasizing a trend that seems to have legitimized military interventions in governance. Notably, Mahamat Déby, a military figure in Chad, was declared winner of last year’s presidential elections after seizing power in 2021 following his father's death.
This victory for Nguema marks a significant moment not only for Gabon but also reflects a broader regional challenge regarding governance and the future role of military leaders in civilian political structures.
