Gabon is gearing up for a pivotal election as approximately one million voters prepare to choose a new president.
Coup Leader Faces Voters as Gabon Holds Historic Election
Coup Leader Faces Voters as Gabon Holds Historic Election
Gabon enters a new era as the army coup leader seeks to solidify power in the first presidential elections without a Bongo family member on the ballot.
As the Central African nation of Gabon prepares for its recent presidential election, the spotlight is on coup leader General Brice Oligui Nguema, who has maneuvered his way into a position of electoral authority after ousting former President Ali Bongo 19 months prior. For the first time in decades, a Bongo family member is notably absent from the ballot, setting the stage for a transformative election.
A total of eight candidates, including Gninga Chaning Zenaba as the sole female contender, aim to capture the presidency. Their ranks also feature former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie-by-Nze from the Bongo era, alongside other prominent figures from the former ruling PDG party, such as Stéphane Germain Iloko and Alain Simplice Boungouères.
While official election results may be announced as early as Sunday, counting could potentially extend into the following week. Approximately one million Gabonese citizens and members of the diaspora are expected to participate in this monumental vote.
Despite the country’s rich resources in oil and timber, about 35% of Gabon's 2.5 million residents live below the poverty line of $2 (£1.50) a day. During the campaign, candidates focused on connecting with voters in rural areas, while streets in Libreville largely showcased Oligui Nguema's campaign materials, overshadowing rival advertisements.
“A new way of doing things – action before speeches,” echoes taxi driver Landry Obame-Mezui in support of Oligui Nguema's leadership. However, criticisms surrounding the transitional process remain prevalent, with opponents pointing to constitutional changes that favor the incumbent, despite promises to relinquish power to civilian rule.
One significant alteration includes an upper age limit, which barred one of Oligui Nguema’s strongest competitors, Albert Ondo Ossa, from participating. Bilie-by-Nze, another key candidate, aims to present himself as the needed change while facing skepticism due to his past affiliations with the dismissed regime.
As Gabonese citizens express a strong desire for governance marked by social justice and opportunities, concerns over high unemployment and the need for economic improvements resonate throughout the voter base. “We want a developed and prosperous Gabon,” emphasized registered voter Noel Kounta.
Polls are set to close at 18:00 local time (17:00 GMT) on Saturday, marking a critical moment in Gabon's political landscape.
