Gabon: Historic Presidential Election Marks End of Bongo Era
Gabonese citizens cast their votes in the nation’s first presidential election since the military coup of August 2023, which ended the 56-year rule of the Bongo family.
Approximately 920,000 registered voters participated across 3,000 polling stations. The election follows the adoption of a new constitution in November 2024, which introduced a seven-year presidential term, renewable once, and allowed military personnel to run for office.
General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, who led the 2023 coup and has served as interim president, is a leading candidate. His campaign, under the slogan “We Build Together,” emphasizes economic diversification and anti-corruption efforts. Nguema has been the most visible candidate during the campaign, promoting development in agriculture, industry, and tourism.
His main opponent, former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze, has criticized Nguema’s military leadership and the fairness of the election, citing concerns over transparency and the use of state resources. Bilie-By-Nze advocates for political and economic independence and has expressed openness to re-evaluating Gabon’s relationship with France.
The election is being closely monitored by international observers, including missions from the African Union and the European Union, to assess its credibility and transparency. The outcome is expected to have significant implications for Gabon’s political stability and its relations with international investors.
While the election represents a step towards democratic governance, concerns remain about the concentration of power and the inclusivity of the political process. The international community and Gabonese citizens alike await the results, hopeful for a peaceful transition and meaningful political reform.
Historic Presidential election in Gabon marks end of Bongo era
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