Gabon Holds First Presidential Election Post-Military Coup

Gabon holds its first presidential election since the military coup that removed Ali Bongo. General Brice Oligui Nguema leads among eight candidates, including Alain Claude Bilie-by-Nze. Critics allege electoral unfairness, as voters demand better governance and economic improvement amidst high unemployment.

Gabon is currently holding its presidential election, marking the first voting since a military coup ousted former President Ali Bongo 19 months ago. General Brice Oligui Nguema, the coup leader, has altered the constitution to run in this election, where eight candidates are vying for the presidency, including only one female candidate, Gninga Chaning Zenaba.

Notable candidates include former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie-by-Nze and two representatives from the former ruling PDG party, Stéphane Germain Iloko and Alain Simplice Boungouères. Expected voter turnout is nearly one million, despite Gabon’s small population of 2.5 million.

Campaigning has seen a focus on reaching voters in rural areas rather than in Libreville, the capital, where objections to Oligui Nguema’s presence dominate the landscape. Supporters praise him for a hands-on approach, stating, “The builder Oligui Nguema… came in with a new way of doing things – action before speeches.”

Critics argue that Oligui Nguema has manipulated the transitional process for his benefit. Electoral changes have rendered prominent opposition figures, such as Albert Ondo Ossa, ineligible to run. Bilie-by-Nze, seen as a potential challenger, faces scrutiny due to his previous connections with Bongo’s regime.

The Gabonese populace is eager for improvement, weary of embezzlement and unemployment. Voters express the desire for a well-managed government that prioritizes social justice and jobs, emphasizing the high unemployment rates. Polls are scheduled to close at 18:00 local time (17:00 GMT).

The presidential election in Gabon marks a significant moment following the military coup that ousted the Bongo family from power. With General Brice Oligui Nguema leading the race amid significant criticism, it is evident that the country’s electorate yearns for transformative leadership that addresses high unemployment and governance issues. As results are anticipated, the future direction of Gabon remains contingent on the electorate’s choices during this pivotal vote.

Original Source: www.bbc.com