Gabon Junta Chief Faces Three Challengers in Upcoming Election

Gabon’s military leader Brice Oligui Nguema will compete against three candidates, notably former prime minister Alain-Claude Bilie By Nze, in the upcoming presidential election on April 12. Despite a backdrop of military rule, Oligui is committed to returning power to civilians, albeit under new electoral regulations that allow military figures to stand for election.

In Gabon’s upcoming presidential election scheduled for April 12, military leader Brice Oligui Nguema will contend with three challengers, including Alain-Claude Bilie By Nze, the last prime minister under the previously ousted president, Ali Bongo Ondimba. Oligui, who orchestrated the military coup that ended 55 years of Bongo family leadership, is viewed as a significant political figure.

The candidates list features lawyer and tax inspector Joseph Lapensee Essingone, along with doctor Stephane Germain Iloko Boussengui. Interior Minister Hermann Immongault confirmed that out of 23 candidates who submitted their nominations, only four were qualified, while the other 19 rejections were not elaborated upon, excluding prominent figures like trade unionist Jean-Remy Yama.

Oligui declared his presidential run on March 3, promising to return power to civilians. However, a newly enacted electoral code, sanctioned by the transitional parliament in late January, permits army personnel to run for office, thereby facilitating his candidacy. Oligui confirmed that he received approval from the Ministry of Defense to temporarily relinquish his post as a general for the duration of the electoral process.

In summary, Brice Oligui Nguema, following his coup against the Bongo regime, is set to participate in the presidential election alongside three contenders, notably the former prime minister Alain-Claude Bilie By Nze. While 23 individuals submitted their candidacies, only four were approved. Oligui’s pledge to restore civilian leadership contrasts with the backdrop of a newly established electoral code that accommodates military candidates. Thus, the outcome of this election could significantly shape Gabon’s political trajectory following decades of Bongo family dominance.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com