Gabon’s Presidential Election Candidates Approved, Including Coup Leader
Gabon’s Constitutional Court has approved eight candidates for the presidential election, including interim President Brice Oligui Nguema, following a coup in 2023. The new constitution allows Nguema to run, raising concerns about ongoing junta influence. Other candidates include former Prime Minister Alain Claude Billie By Nze and Gninga Chaning Zenaba, the only woman in the race, with elections scheduled for April 12.
Gabon’s Constitutional Court has sanctioned a list of eight candidates for the upcoming presidential election, including interim President Brice Oligui Nguema, who came to power following a military coup in 2023. Despite the typical restrictions on transitional leaders participating in elections, a newly ratified constitution in November granted Nguema an exemption, raising concerns among analysts and opposition groups regarding the junta’s intentions to maintain power.
Nguema, at 50 years of age, ended the prolonged reign of former President Ali Bongo and his family over Gabon, marking the eighth coup in West and Central Africa from 2020 to 2023. His chief competitor is expected to be Alain Claude Billie By Nze, who previously served as Bongo’s last prime minister and is entering the race as an independent.
Additional candidates approved by the court include Stephane Germain Iloko Boussengui, a former member of Bongo’s Gabonese Democratic Party, along with tax inspector Joseph Lapensee Essigone. Notably, Gninga Chaning Zenaba stands out as the sole female candidate in the race. The presidential election is slated for April 12.
In summary, Gabon’s recent approval of candidates for the presidential election reflects significant political shifts within the nation, particularly with the participation of interim President Brice Oligui Nguema despite traditional restrictions. The upcoming election will witness notable figures including Alain Claude Billie By Nze and Gninga Chaning Zenaba, highlighting a diverse pool of candidates in a pivotal moment for Gabonese democracy.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
