Gabon’s military leader Brice Oligui Nguema will compete against three candidates, including Alain-Claude Bilie By Nze, in the presidential election on April 12, 2025. Only four out of twenty-three applicants were approved, with Oligui promising to restore civilian rule after a transition.
In Gabon, military leader Brice Oligui Nguema will contend in the upcoming presidential election against three candidates. The election is scheduled for April 12, 2025, and the candidates’ list was finalized on Sunday. Oligui’s strongest opponent is Alain-Claude Bilie By Nze, the former prime minister during Ali Bongo Ondimba’s regime.
The competition extends to lawyer and tax inspector Joseph Lapensee Essingone, as well as doctor Stéphane Germain Iloko Boussengui. Interior Minister Hermann Immongault revealed that 23 individuals applied to be candidates, but only four met the criteria for candidacy. Reasons for the rejection of 19 other applicants, including trade unionist Jean-Remy Yama, were not specified, yet these individuals may appeal to the Constitutional Court.
Brice Oligui Nguema announced his candidacy on March 3, promising to restore civilian governance following a transitional period. A newly enacted electoral code allows military officials to enter the political arena, facilitating his independent run. Campaigning is set to commence on March 29, although a date for a potential second-round run-off has yet to be determined.
In conclusion, Gabon’s upcoming presidential election will witness military leader Brice Oligui Nguema facing three challengers, with Alain-Claude Bilie By Nze positioned as his most formidable opponent. Amidst a backdrop of notable political transitions, Oligui has committed to returning power to civilians after his transitional leadership. The election is poised for a significant competitive atmosphere, set to take place on April 12, 2025.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
