Gabon held its first presidential election since the 2023 military coup. Interim President Gen. Oligui Nguema is a frontrunner against Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze. About 920,000 voters participated, amid concerns over election integrity. The electoral process reflects significant public sentiment regarding governance and colonial ties.
Voters in Gabon participated in a pivotal presidential election on Saturday, which marks the first electoral process following the military coup in 2023 that dismantled a political dynasty lasting over half a century. The interim military government anticipates that this election will confer legitimacy onto their authority. Analysts predict significant support for interim President Gen. Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, who orchestrated the coup.
Approximately 920,000 registered voters, including over 28,000 residing abroad, accessed more than 3,000 polling stations. Despite the country’s abundant oil resources, about one-third of Gabon’s 2.3 million citizens continue to live in poverty. Gen. Oligui Nguema, who removed President Ali Bongo Ondimba from power, seeks to solidify his authority with a proposed seven-year term.
Following the coup, Ali Bongo was temporarily detained before being released due to health issues. Allegations of corruption have been directed towards his family members, while Bongo himself has not faced any charges. Gen. Oligui Nguema declared his intention to transition power back to civilian governance through what he termed “credible elections,” positioning his campaign with the motto: “We Build Together.”
In January, a new electoral code was adopted, allowing military personnel to run for elections. Additionally, a new constitution established a seven-year presidential term, renewable once, and prohibits the succession of family members to the presidency, eliminating the role of prime minister in the process.
Among the eight candidates competing in the election, the foremost opponent of Oligui Nguema is Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze, a former prime minister under Bongo. Bilie-By-Nze advocates for financial reform, job creation for youth, and a reassessment of Gabon’s historical ties with France. He expressed skepticism regarding the integrity of the election, stating, “Everything has been done to lock down the vote.”
Gabon remains a unique case in the region, still hosting a French military presence while numerous former colonies have distanced themselves from France. Oligui Nguema has yet to indicate a departure from this military collaboration, whereas Bilie-By-Nze has asserted that all topics, including the military alliance, are up for renegotiation.
As voting commenced peacefully, individuals of various ages queued at polling stations in the capital, Libreville. Voter sentiments were mixed; some expressed support for Bilie-By-Nze, criticizing the continuity of the prior regime’s practices under military governance. Conversely, others, like Jean Bie, praised the current military government’s accomplishments, affirming their hope for continued progress over the next seven years.
The Gabonese presidential election represents a significant political moment following the military coup of 2023, with voters facing choices between continuity and change. The interim president, Gen. Oligui Nguema, seeks to establish his legitimacy, while his main rival, Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze, challenges the status quo. Amidst diverse opinions among the electorate, the outcomes of this election may shape the future political landscape of Gabon and its relationship with colonial powers.
Original Source: www.news4jax.com
