Gabon is set to vote in its first presidential election since the 2023 coup that ended the Bongo family’s long rule. General Brice Oligui Nguema, who leads the transitional government, is running as the incumbent against former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie By Nze. Nguema’s popularity stems from his role in ending Ali Bongo’s unpopular regime, while the nation seeks improvements in governance and economic diversification.
Gabon is set to conduct its first presidential election on Saturday since the 2023 coup, which ended the 56-year rule of the Bongo family. The new military leadership aims to solidify their authority through this election. The coup, led by Brice Oligui Nguema, was a part of a succession of such events in West and Central Africa, undermining longstanding democratic achievements in these regions.
General Nguema, who declared himself the head of Gabon’s transitional government after the coup, announced his candidacy for the election. His primary opponent, former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie By Nze, launched a new political movement, “Together for Gabon,” to distance himself from the discredited Bongo administration. Nguema is favored to win due to his role as the current leader and his increasing popularity after dismantling Ali Bongo’s unpopular governance.
Despite his popularity, Nguema controls the political landscape tightly, with key institutions like the senate and constitutional court filled with his supporters. He envisions a reformed Gabon, professing goals of national rebuilding and implying a break from the past. This message resonates in a country where a small elite has thrived on oil wealth while the majority faces poverty.
The coup followed political unrest after the 2016 elections, where Ali Bongo’s victory sparked protests due to perceived electoral fraud. Nguema quickly intervened during the 2023 elections, dismissing Bongo’s claims of victory as illegitimate. Since the coup, Gabon’s economy has shown positive signs, with growth attributed to new infrastructure projects and increased commodity production.
Nevertheless, Gabon heavily relies on its declining oil reserves, and both Nguema and his predecessor have pledged to diversify the economy and bolster sectors like agriculture, tourism, and industry. Civil society activist Pépecy Ogouliguendé expressed hope for a more transparent government emerging from the elections, emphasizing the public’s desire for improvements in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Polling stations will operate from 8 am to 6 pm, with results anticipated later that evening.
The upcoming presidential election in Gabon marks a pivotal moment post-coup, with Brice Oligui Nguema positioned as both the incumbent and a popular figure promising economic reform. His primary opposition, Alain Claude Bilie By Nze, seeks to redefine Gabon’s political landscape. The election’s outcome may significantly impact governance, public living conditions, and the nation’s economic diversification efforts. Citizens are hopeful for a shift towards accountable leadership amidst ongoing challenges.
Original Source: www.thestar.com.my
