Gabon Hosts Pivotal Presidential Election Post-Military Coup

Gabon holds its first presidential election since a military coup ousted former President Ali Bongo 19 months ago. General Brice Oligui Nguema leads the race, having amended the constitution to facilitate his candidacy. Eight candidates, including one woman, are competing, amid citizen demands for political and economic reform.

Gabon is conducting its first presidential election since the military coup that ousted former President Ali Bongo 19 months ago. General Brice Oligui Nguema, the coup leader, has modified the constitution to enable his candidacy in this election, marking a significant shift in the political landscape as no Bongo family member appears on the ballot. A total of eight candidates are vying for the presidency, with Gninga Chaning Zenaba as the sole female contender.

The candidate lineup includes former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie-by-Nze, who served under the Bongo administration, alongside two former members of the ruling PDG party, Stéphane Germain Iloko and Alain Simplice Boungouères. The election results could be announced as early as Sunday, although the counting may persist into the following week.

Approximately one million voters are anticipated to participate in the election in Gabon and abroad. Despite the country’s wealth in oil and timber, about 35% of its 2.5 million citizens live below the poverty line of $2 (£1.50) per day. During the two-week campaign, candidates primarily focused on reaching voters in rural areas, with limited rallies in the capital, Libreville.

Libreville’s streets are predominantly adorned with campaign materials for Oligui Nguema, while his rivals have comparatively low visibility. Many supporters like taxi driver Landry Obame-Mezui express their allegiance to Oligui Nguema for his proactive approach, favoring action over mere rhetoric. Critics, however, argue that the electoral process has been skewed in favor of Oligui Nguema, despite his commitment to restoring civilian governance.

Notably, the introduction of an upper age limit has rendered eminent opposition candidate Albert Ondo Ossa ineligible. Bilie-by-Nze, perceived as Oligui Nguema’s closest competitor, has urged the junta leader to relinquish military power. Gabonese citizens express hopeful aspirations for governance reform, seeking an end to corruption, rising unemployment, and social inequities that have plagued the nation for decades, as articulated by voter Noel Kounta.

The presidential election in Gabon marks a critical juncture in its political history, occurring after a military coup disrupted decades of Bongo family rule. With General Brice Oligui Nguema among the candidates, the election reflects ongoing societal demands for change, including economic improvement and responsible governance. The outcome of this election may pave the way for a transformative shift in Gabon’s prospects and governance.

Original Source: www.bbc.com