Gabon Election: Brice Oligui Nguema Expected to Secure Presidential Victory

Gabon held a presidential election on Saturday where junta leader Brice Oligui Nguema is expected to win, potentially becoming the first elected leader since his coup in 2023. High voter turnout of 87.12% was reported amid ongoing socio-economic challenges. Oligui faces several rivals as he campaigns for a seven-year term, yet critics question his ability to implement significant change following years of mismanagement under previous leadership.

On Saturday, Gabonese citizens participated in a presidential election anticipated to make junta chief Brice Oligui Nguema the nation’s first elected leader following his coup in 2023. Oligui had previously orchestrated the August 30 putsch, which terminated 55 years of Bongo family rule accused of exploiting Gabon’s resources. Despite facing several adversaries, Oligui expressed his confidence while casting his vote in Libreville alongside first lady Zita.

Polling stations saw long queues as the election commenced under sunny skies after adverse weather during the night. The Gabonese Ministry of the Interior reported an impressive voter turnout of 87.12% by the close of polls at 6:00 PM. With a population of 2.3 million, the nation grapples with issues such as high unemployment and inadequate infrastructure, evidenced by only 2,000 of 10,000 km of roads being serviceable.

In his campaign for a seven-year term, Oligui shed his military attire to confront seven rivals, including former prime minister Alain-Claude Bilie By Nze. Approximately 920,000 citizens were authorized to vote, with the final results anticipated soon, and Oligui heralded a potential “historic victory.” However, his critics note concerns regarding his ability to move away from past governance failures associated with the Bongos.

Oligui’s visage was prominently displayed throughout Libreville, overshadowing that of competing candidates. The sentiments among the population indicate a mixture of hope and skepticism regarding the future leadership, with many awaiting the election results attentively.

The Gabonese presidential election has provided the potential for significant political change, as Brice Oligui Nguema, the incumbent junta chief, seeks to transition from military rule to an elected position. With a substantial voter turnout and pressing socio-economic challenges, the election’s outcome may shape Gabon’s future governance and development. The political landscape remains charged with both expectation and criticism as citizens reflect on Oligui’s political promises against a backdrop of historical governance issues.

Original Source: www.taipeitimes.com