General Brice Oligui Nguema, who seized power in Gabon through a coup in August 2023, has officially declared his candidacy for the April 2025 presidential elections. His decision follows public appeals, yet critics express concern over a potential lack of genuine transition to civilian rule. The political landscape remains contentious as opposition parties advocate for a legitimate civilian government amidst the historical context of the Bongo family’s rule.
General Brice Oligui Nguema, the military leader who assumed power in Gabon following a coup in August 2023, has announced his decision to run for the presidency in the April 2025 elections. On March 1, 2025, Nguema expressed this intent after thoughtful consideration and heeding the calls from the Gabonese populace. He characterized himself as a builder, seeking the courage and strength from the people to improve the nation.
Initially, General Nguema led the coup that ended the Bongo family’s 56-year hold on power after Ali Bongo was declared the victor of a contentious presidential election, which raised allegations of fraud. After taking control, he assured a transition to civilian governance; however, critics have expressed concerns that the recent reforms may serve primarily to facilitate his own presidential aspirations.
In light of Nguema’s candidacy, opposition parties and various civil society organizations are advocating for the respect of his prior commitment to transition to a civilian government. The Bongo family’s dominance in Gabonese politics spanned from 1967, starting with Omar Bongo, who governed for 41 years, until his death in 2009. The rule continued under his son, Ali Bongo, for 14 years, until the coup.
During the coup in August 2023, Ali Bongo, speaking from house arrest, called upon the people to resist the military takeover by urging them to ‘make noise’. However, his appeals were largely ineffective as public sentiment leaned towards celebrating the abolishment of the longstanding Bongo rule. As the elections scheduled for April 12, 2025, draw near, the implications of General Nguema’s candidacy on Gabon’s political landscape will be closely monitored.
In summary, General Brice Oligui Nguema’s declaration to run for president marks a pivotal moment in Gabon’s political history. Originally seizing power through a coup, his move towards candidacy raises questions about the authenticity of the transition to democracy. With opposition voices advocating for true civilian governance and a historical context of the Bongo family’s prolonged leadership, the upcoming elections will be crucial in determining the future of Gabonese politics.
Original Source: www.tv47.digital
