Gabon Election: Junta Leader Nguema Declares Candidacy for Presidency

General Brice Oligui Nguema, the military leader of Gabon, has announced his intention to run for presidential election on April 12, 2023. Following a coup that ended the Bongo family’s long rule, he promised to transfer power to civilians. Critics argue new laws favor his candidacy, which raises concerns regarding true democratization in Gabon amid ongoing poverty challenges.

In a significant development, Gabon’s military leader, General Brice Oligui Nguema, has declared his candidacy for the presidency in the upcoming election scheduled for April 12. Nguema came to power during a coup in 2023, which ended the Bongo family’s long-standing rule. Following this, he made a commitment to transfer authority to civilian control, a promise now complicated by a newly established constitution and electoral code that many critics believe may favor his candidacy.

In a public address in Libreville, Nguema announced his decision to run, stating it was made “after careful reflection and in response to your many appeals.” The General expressed his readiness to lead Gabon towards a prosperous future, asserting, “I am a builder and I need your courage, your strength, to build this country.” This announcement signals the culmination of months of speculation regarding his presidential intentions.

Prior to his announcement, Nguema acknowledged the military’s desire for him to participate in the elections and encouraged their votes. Clarification regarding his military status came from a Facebook page associated with him, indicating that he would temporarily don civilian attire during the campaign but would permanently resign from the military should he win the election. The page emphasized, “If he’s not elected, he will return to the barracks.”

The junta, led by Nguema, is credited with ending a 55-year period of Bongo family rule. Ali Bongo, the most recent president, held office for 14 years and succeeded his father, Omar Bongo, who governed for 41 years. Meanwhile, the president of Equatorial Guinea, Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, encouraged Gabonese citizens to support Nguema for a brighter future.

Despite Gabon’s considerable natural resources, approximately one-third of its 2.4 million citizens live in poverty, according to United Nations reports. There is a growing sentiment among opposition and civil society groups urging Nguema to adhere to his commitment to return power to civilians following the transitional period.

In summary, General Brice Oligui Nguema’s announcement to run for president reflects the ongoing political transformation in Gabon following his coup. His intentions have raised both hope and concern among the populace, as he balances the expectations of military support against the need for a civilian-led governance. As Gabon faces economic challenges, the outcome of this election could significantly impact its future.

Original Source: www.bbc.com