Gabon’s military leader, General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, has declared his intention to run in the upcoming presidential election set for April 12. Nguema, who took power after ousting President Ali Bongo Ondimba in a 2023 coup, emphasized citizen support in his decision. A recent electoral code change allows military personnel to participate politically, paving the way for his candidacy amidst economic challenges in the oil-rich nation.
On Monday, General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, Gabon’s military leader, announced his candidacy for the presidential election scheduled for April 12. An interim president following a military coup in 2023 that ousted President Ali Bongo Ondimba, Nguema cited numerous appeals from citizens in his decision to enter the race.
Since his appointment as the head of a transitional committee in August 2023, Nguema has positioned himself as a leading figure following a legacy of governance marred by allegations of mismanagement and corruption under Bongo’s rule. The recent establishment of a new electoral code by Gabon’s parliament, permitting military personnel to run in political elections, has allowed Nguema to pursue his candidacy.
The constitutional framework adopted in November defines a presidential term as seven years, renewable once, presenting a fresh opportunity for Nguema. President Bongo, who served two terms, faced considerable discontent regarding his family’s long-standing control over the country since 2009. Gabon, a nation characterized by significant oil wealth and OPEC membership, continues to grapple with high unemployment rates among its youth.
Economic disparities plague Gabon, where oil revenues, which reached $6 billion in 2022, are not equitably distributed. This has led to rampant unemployment, with nearly 40% of youth aged 15 to 24 reported out of work in 2020, as per World Bank statistics. Nguema’s potential presidency comes amid a national landscape yearning for change and reform.
General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema’s announcement to run for the presidency marks a significant shift in Gabon’s political landscape, particularly following the recent military coup. The modification of the electoral laws allowing military candidates reflects evolving governance norms. With mounting economic challenges and social unrest, Nguema’s leadership could either solidify or further destabilize the nation’s future.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
