Gabon Junta Leader Nguema Announces Presidential Candidacy for April Election
General Brice Oligui Nguema, head of Gabon’s military junta, intends to run for president in the April 12 election. After seizing power in 2023 from the Bongo family, Nguema’s candidacy raises concerns over a potentially biased electoral framework. He has acknowledged the need for support from the Gabonese people to enhance the nation’s future amid prevalent poverty issues.
General Brice Oligui Nguema, head of Gabon’s military junta, has officially declared his candidacy for the presidency in the upcoming April 12 election. He took control of the government in a coup in 2023, which ended the long-standing Bongo family’s rule. Nguema’s announcement comes after the passage of a new constitution and electoral code, which critics claim were created to benefit his presidential ambitions.
In a speech to supporters in Libreville, Nguema expressed his commitment to improve the nation’s fortunes, stating, “I am a builder and I need your courage, your strength, to build this country.” His entry into the electoral race follows months of speculation about his intentions and appears to align with the military’s wishes for him to seek the presidency.
His spokesman has refuted rumors regarding his resignation from the military, clarifying that Nguema will temporarily abandon his military uniform for the election. The military aide’s explanation indicated that if elected, he would need to permanently retire from the army but could revert to military duties if not elected.
The junta has been credited with concluding the 55-year Bongo dynasty, which saw Ali Bongo rule for 14 years after succeeding his father, Omar Bongo. In a show of regional support, Equatorial Guinea’s President Obiang Nguema Mbasogo has recently encouraged Gabonese citizens to back Nguema for a more prosperous future.
Despite Gabon’s rich oil resources, the UN reports that about one-third of its 2.4 million citizens live in poverty. This economic reality has prompted opposition and civil society groups to urge the junta leader to fulfill his commitment to transition power back to civilian governance after taking charge.
General Brice Oligui Nguema’s announcement to run for president marks a significant development in Gabon’s political landscape following his 2023 coup. Despite historical ties with military governance, critiques suggest that the new electoral framework may be biased towards his candidacy. Ongoing economic challenges continue to plague the nation, underscoring the need for effective leadership as elections approach.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
