Gabonese Voters Face Choices in Historic Presidential Election Post-Coup

Gabon held a presidential election on Saturday, the first since a 2023 military coup. General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema aims to legitimize his rule, facing off against Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze, Bongo’s ex-prime minister. Voter opinions are divided, with many expressing skepticism about the election’s fairness and the future of governance in Gabon.

Voters in Gabon participated in a presidential election on Saturday, marking the first election since a military coup in 2023 that ended a political dynasty spanning over five decades. This election is seen as a means for the military rulers to legitimize their authority. Approximately 920,000 voters, with more than 28,000 living abroad, were registered to vote at over 3,000 polling stations, all while a significant portion of the population lives in poverty despite the country’s abundant oil resources.

General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, the interim president who led the coup against President Ali Bongo Ondimba, seeks to secure a seven-year term. After being detained briefly post-coup, Bongo was released due to health issues, while his family faced charges related to corruption. Oligui Nguema proposed a return to civilian governance through credible elections, rallying under the slogan “We Build Together.”

Eight candidates are vying for the presidency, with Oligui Nguema’s primary opponent being Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze, Bongo’s former prime minister. Bilie-By-Nze aims to revamp public finances, generate employment for youth, and sever ties with France, the former colonial power. However, he expressed skepticism regarding the election’s fairness, stating, “Everything has been done to lock down the vote.”

Despite the ongoing military rule, many voters expressed diverse opinions. In Libreville, those such as Jonas Obiang criticized Oligui Nguema, claiming he collaborates with former regime members. Conversely, voter Jean Bie noted improvements under Oligui Nguema’s leadership, expressing hope for further progress in the coming years. The election reflects complex dynamics in a nation navigating its post-coup future.

The presidential election in Gabon represents a critical juncture for the nation following the military coup of 2023. General Oligui Nguema’s bid for legitimacy as interim president faces significant opposition from former Prime Minister Bilie-By-Nze. This election highlights the deep divisions among voters regarding military rule and the path towards civilian governance. Observing the outcomes will be pivotal in understanding Gabon’s political trajectory in the years ahead.

Original Source: www.news4jax.com