General Brice Nguema, the military leader of Gabon, has announced his candidacy for the presidential election on April 12, 2025, following a coup that removed the Bongo family from power. While he pledges to restore governance and address key national challenges, including debt and power shortages, he must navigate the transition from military leader to presidential candidate. His campaign includes engaging youth and promising a revitalization of infrastructure.
General Brice Nguema, the military leader of Gabon, has declared his candidacy for the presidency in the upcoming election scheduled for April 12, 2025. Nguema, who came to power following a coup in August 2023 that ended the Bongo family’s long-standing rule, had previously committed to restoring civilian governance after a transitional phase. However, recent changes in the electoral code now permit military officials to participate in elections.
In his announcement delivered in Libreville, the capital city, General Nguema, who recently turned 50, stated, “After careful reflection and in response to your many appeals, I’ve decided to be a candidate in the April 12 presidential election.” He articulated his vision for Gabon’s future, emphasizing his commitment to revitalize the nation and tackle its significant infrastructure issues.
As part of his candidacy, Nguema will temporarily set aside his military uniform while pursuing the presidency, according to his communications team. They noted, “At the end of the election period, he will again wear his military uniform while awaiting the results,” indicating a clear distinction between his military role and his political ambitions.
Despite his military background, Nguema aims to connect with the populace, particularly the youth demographic, by implementing engaging strategies, such as distributing free concert tickets from a popular artist. With the deadline for candidate confirmation set for March 8, 2025, some potential challengers have already withdrawn, yet Nguema is expected to encounter competition.
During his campaign, the general vowed to confront significant national issues, including chronic power outages and Gabon’s rising national debt, currently at 70 percent of GDP. With approximately $12 billion in debt as of 2023, financial challenges pose critical concerns for a nation enriched with natural resources like oil, timber, and manganese.
In conclusion, General Brice Nguema’s candidacy for the Gabonese presidency marks a significant development in the country’s political landscape following the recent coup. While he seeks to project a vision of renewal and responsiveness to the public’s needs, the transition from military to political leader poses both challenges and opportunities for governance in Gabon. His proposed solutions to pressing issues will be closely monitored as the election date approaches.
Original Source: punchng.com
