Gabon’s transition leader, General Brice Nguema, has submitted his candidacy for the April 2025 presidential election after receiving approval from the Ministry of National Defense. He will run as an independent, introducing a platform called “The Builders’ Movement” and inviting various groups to support his vision. This election marks Gabon’s first electoral process following the military coup that ousted President Ali Bongo Ondimba in 2023.
General Brice Oligui Nguema, the leader of Gabon’s transition government since the 2023 military coup, has officially filed his candidacy for the upcoming presidential election scheduled for April 2025. Nguema, who orchestrated the military takeover that ended the Bongo family’s prolonged rule, registered his candidacy at the Ministry of the Interior.
In a public statement, Nguema announced that the Ministry of National Defense had granted his request to enter the political arena, thus permitting him to run for office. “I am happy today to inform you that the Ministry of National Defense has favourably responded to my availability request. This means that since February 27, 2025, I am eligible to engage in politics and even occupy the supreme position,” he communicated to AFP.
Despite initial speculation regarding the establishment of a political party, Nguema declared his intention to contest as an independent candidate. He introduced a political initiative titled “The Builders’ Movement,” inviting diverse groups such as political organizations, unions, youth groups, and intellectuals to collaborate in support of his vision for Gabon’s future.
Nguema emphasized, “There is no reason to create a party. Time does not allow us to do so. But like the others, I will go as an independent.” He urged all supporters, including associations and political parties, to join forces in the movement to advance the nation together.
His candidacy signifies a pivotal juncture in Gabon’s transition to civilian governance. Over the past two years, Nguema has focused on stabilizing the nation following the coup that removed President Ali Bongo Ondimba in August 2023, amid allegations of electoral discrepancies and governance shortcomings. The forthcoming election will be Gabon’s first since this significant political upheaval.
General Brice Oligui Nguema’s formal candidacy for the April 2025 presidential election marks a notable development in Gabon’s political landscape. His declaration, stemming from the transition government he has led after the military coup, emphasizes collaboration through an independent platform, ‘The Builders’ Movement.’ As Gabon prepares for its first election since the ousting of President Bongo, Nguema’s role will be crucial in shaping the nation’s future and its return to civilian rule.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
