Gabon held its first presidential election post-2023 military coup on Saturday, with Gen. Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema expected to win. Approximately 920,000 voters, including those abroad, participated in the polls amidst concerns of fairness raised by opposition candidate Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze. Voter opinions varied between supporting the military regime and desiring change, indicating a divided populace regarding the nation’s future.
Voters in Gabon participated in a presidential election on Saturday, marking the first electoral event since the military coup of 2023. This election is significant as it aims to legitimize the military leaders’ authority following a political dynasty lasting over 50 years. Analysts anticipate a decisive victory for interim president Gen. Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, who led the coup.
Approximately 920,000 registered voters, including over 28,000 living abroad, were able to cast their votes at more than 3,000 polling stations. Despite Gabon’s oil wealth, one-third of the population lives in poverty. Gen. Oligui Nguema, who ousted President Ali Bongo Ondimba nearly two years ago, seeks to secure a seven-year term to reinforce his power.
Post-coup, President Bongo was detained briefly and later released due to health concerns, while his family faced corruption charges. Oligui Nguema has pledged to restore civilian governance through credible elections and has campaigned under the slogan, “We Build Together.” The recent changes in the electoral code now permit military personnel, including the interim president, to run for office.
The newly adopted constitution limits the presidential term to seven years, renewable once, and prevents family succession. Eight candidates are vying for the presidency, with Bongo’s former prime minister Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze emerging as the primary contender, advocating for economic reforms and reduced dependence on France.
Bilie-By-Nze expressed skepticism about the fairness of the election process, claiming that measures have been instituted to restrict voter participation. Gabon’s ties with France remain strong, with over 300 French troops stationed in the country. While Oligui Nguema has not protested these ties, Bilie-By-Nze has indicated a desire to renegotiate them, stating, “no subject is off limits.”
Voting proceeded smoothly in Libreville, where voters from various demographics came to the polling stations. Opinions among voters varied significantly; some supported Bilie-By-Nze, viewing the military regime as a continuity of the previous failures, while others endorsed Oligui Nguema, citing benefits under his governance and achievements in development projects.
Expressions of dissent against military governance were voiced by voters like Jonas Obiang and Antoine Nkili, who condemned the continued association with former regime officials. Contrarily, supporters like Jean Bie recognized improvements under military rule and expressed hope for future projects.
In conclusion, the presidential election in Gabon represents a crucial moment following the military coup that removed a long-standing political dynasty. While interim president Gen. Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema is projected to win, opposition figures like Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze challenge the legitimacy of the electoral process. Voter sentiments reflect a divided populace, with some seeking change and others advocating for stability under military leadership. The outcomes may shape Gabon’s future governance and its relationship with France.
Original Source: www.news4jax.com
