Gabon Election: Junta Leader Nguema Announces Presidential Candidacy

Gabon’s junta leader, General Brice Oligui Nguema, has announced his candidacy for the presidency in the upcoming April 12 election. He stated his decision was influenced by public demand after seizing power in a 2023 coup that ended the Bongo family dynasty. Despite criticisms regarding new laws favoring his candidacy, Nguema expressed a commitment to transforming Gabon while facing ongoing socio-economic challenges.

General Brice Oligui Nguema, the military leader of Gabon, has officially declared his candidacy for the presidency in the upcoming election scheduled for April 12. Following a coup in 2023 that ended the long-standing Bongo family’s rule, Nguema initially promised to return power to civilian authorities. However, the recent establishment of a new constitution and electoral code has raised concerns regarding their fairness and implications for his presidential aspirations.

In a speech to the Gabonese public, Mr. Nguema expressed his decision to run for president was made after “careful reflection and in response to your many appeals.” He emphasized his readiness to transform the fortunes of the nation, stating, “I am a builder and I need your courage, your strength, to build this country.” His announcement came amidst growing speculation about his political ambitions.

During a recent military meeting, Nguema acknowledged the military’s support for his candidacy and encouraged them to cast their votes. In addressing the defence forces, he remarked, “I listened to you and, believe me, I understood you.” There had been rumors concerning his military status; however, a spokesperson clarified that while he would temporarily relinquish his uniform, he would fully retire from military service if elected, returning to barracks should he lose.

Under Nguema’s leadership, the junta has been credited with dismantling the 55-year Bongo dynasty. The previous president, Ali Bongo, ruled for fourteen years, taking office after the death of his father, Omar Bongo, who held power for forty-one years. Meanwhile, Equatorial Guinea’s president, Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, publicly encouraged support for Nguema, asserting it could lead to a brighter future for Gabon amid ongoing socio-economic challenges observed in the nation.

Despite Gabon’s abundant resources, including oil and forests, the United Nations reports that one-third of its population of 2.4 million lives below the poverty line. Consequently, several opposition and civil society groups continue to urge General Nguema to fulfill his promise to facilitate a transition back to civilian governance after this period of military rule.

General Brice Oligui Nguema’s declaration to run for the presidency marks a significant moment in Gabon’s political landscape, following the upheaval of the Bongo family’s long-standing rule. While he has expressed intentions of leading the country towards development, concerns about the fairness of the electoral process and the need for a civilian transition remain paramount in the eyes of many Gabonese citizens. The evolving political context suggests a critical juncture for Gabon, as both local and international actors monitor the policies and actions of the junta leader for future implications.

Original Source: www.bbc.com