Gabon’s Constitutional Court Approves Candidates for Presidential Election

Gabon’s Constitutional Court has approved eight candidates for the presidential election, including interim President Brice Oligui Nguema. This follows a recent constitutional amendment allowing such candidacies. Noteworthy competitors include former Prime Minister Alain Claude Billie By Nze and several other candidates, with the election set for April 12, 2025.

Gabon’s Constitutional Court has officially approved eight candidates for the upcoming presidential election scheduled for next month. Notably, interim President Brice Oligui Nguema, who came to power following a military coup in 2023, is among the candidates despite the usual prohibition against transitional leaders running for election. This exception was made possible by a new constitution adopted in November, raising concerns among opposition groups and analysts regarding the junta’s intentions to retain power.

Brice Oligui Nguema, now 50, ended the longstanding rule of Ali Bongo, marking Gabon’s eighth coup in West and Central Africa between 2020 and 2023. His main competitor is Alain Claude Billie By Nze, 57, the last Prime Minister under Bongo, who is contesting as an independent candidate.

Additional candidates include Stephane Germain Iloko Boussengui, who has left Bongo’s party to form his own political movement, and Joseph Lapensee Essigone, a tax inspector. Notably, Gninga Chaning Zenaba is the only woman among the candidates. The election is set for April 12, 2025.

Gabon is preparing for a presidential election amid significant political changes following a coup. Interim President Brice Oligui Nguema leads the candidacy list, supported by a controversial constitutional amendment. The presence of diverse candidates, including a former prime minister and a female entrepreneur, indicates a dynamic electoral landscape, raising critical implications for Gabon’s future governance.

Original Source: www.usnews.com