Former Prime Minister Voids Gabon’s Election Results as Unfree and Opaque
Following Gabon’s first presidential election post-2023 military coup, former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze condemned the election as unfree and opaque. Oligui Nguema won decisively, marking a significant political shift in the nation. Bilie-By-Nze pledged to remain active in politics despite the unfavorable outcome, emphasizing the need for future electoral integrity.
In Gabon’s first presidential election following a military coup in 2023, former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze has publicly denounced the results as lacking transparency and fairness. He expressed his discontent in a press statement, stating, “What we experienced on Saturday, April 12 was not a free election.”
Bilie-By-Nze suffered a significant defeat to Oligui Nguema, who emerged victorious by securing 90.35% of the votes while Bilie-By-Nze received a mere 3%. This election is pivotal for Gabon’s 2.3 million citizens, with a substantial portion living in poverty despite the nation’s oil wealth.
Oligui Nguema, former head of the Republican Guard, orchestrated a bloodless coup in August 2023, displacing president Ali Bongo Ondimba and dismantling a political dynasty that spanned 55 years. Nguema is now positioned to establish his authority during his anticipated seven-year term.
Despite his loss, Bilie-By-Nze extended well wishes to the new leadership, reaffirming his commitment to engage in Gabon’s political environment moving forward. He commented on the misuse of state resources during the election process, aiming to ensure that future elections uphold democratic values and integrity.
The outcome of Gabon’s inaugural post-coup election has raised significant concerns regarding the electoral process. Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze, despite his loss, has emerged as a voice for transparency and fairness in governance. The new president, Oligui Nguema, must navigate the challenges of consolidating power while addressing the socioeconomic issues facing the nation and its citizens.
Original Source: www.wral.com
