Gabon held its first presidential election post-2023 coup, with Gen. Oligui Nguema vying for legitimacy while facing challenges from former prime minister Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze. The election aims to consolidate military power amidst public discontent and shifting political dynamics, especially regarding ties to France.
On Saturday, voters in Gabon participated in a presidential election, the first following the 2023 military coup that ended a 50-year political dynasty. The military leaders aim to strengthen their control, anticipating a significant victory for the interim president, Gen. Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, who led the coup. Approximately 920,000 voters, including over 28,000 living abroad, were registered to vote across more than 3,000 polling stations.
Gen. Oligui Nguema, who ousted President Ali Bongo Ondimba nearly two years prior, is seeking a seven-year term to solidify his power. Following the coup, Bongo faced house arrest and later allegations of corruption involving his family, while not facing charges himself. Oligui Nguema positioned himself as a unifying leader promising credible elections, under the slogan “We Build Together.”
The newly adopted electoral code permits military personnel to run, amidst a shift in the presidential term to a renewable seven years instead of the previous unlimited five-year terms. Moreover, the new constitution prevents family succession of the presidency and has abolished the prime minister position.
Among the eight presidential candidates, Oligui Nguema’s main rival is former prime minister Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze, who aims to reorganize public finances and eliminate ties with France. Bilie-By-Nze expressed doubt about the election’s fairness, stating, “Everything has been done to lock down the vote.”
While Gabon maintains a significant French military presence, Bilie-By-Nze described the relationship with France as negotiable. As voting commenced peacefully in Libreville, opinions among voters varied. Some, like Jonas Obiang, criticized Oligui Nguema’s regime, while others, like Jean Bie, supported him for completed projects and potential future developments.
The recent presidential election in Gabon marks a pivotal moment post-coup, with military leaders seeking validation of their control. Gen. Oligui Nguema aims to secure a longer term, while critics, including main challenger Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze, question the election’s integrity. Voter opinions are polarized, reflecting a mix of skepticism towards military rule and support for perceived progress.
Original Source: www.news4jax.com
