Gabon Military Leader Nguema Announces Presidential Run in April Elections

Gabon’s military leader Gen Brice Oligui Nguema has declared his presidential candidacy for the April 12 election after leading a coup in 2023. Critics claim recent constitutional changes favor his bid. Supported by the public, Nguema aims to transform Gabon’s future while navigating pressures from both opposition forces and economic hardships affecting many citizens.

General Brice Oligui Nguema, Gabon’s military leader, has announced his candidacy for the presidency in the upcoming elections scheduled for April 12. Nguema took control in 2023 through a coup that ousted the long-reigning Bongo family and had previously promised a transition to civilian governance. However, recent constitutional and electoral reforms have been criticized for potentially favoring his presidential bid.

In his announcement, Nguema cited encouragement from the Gabonese public as a motivating factor for his decision. Speaking to supporters in the capital city, Libreville, during severe rain, he expressed his desire to positively impact the nation’s future by saying, “I am a builder and I need your courage, your strength, to build this country.”

Despite speculation about his military status affecting his eligibility to run, Nguema’s team clarified that he would temporarily step away from military duties while campaigning. His spokesman confirmed he is not resigning from the army until after the election, stating if he loses, he would return to the military: “If he’s not elected, he will return to the barracks.”

The junta, led by Nguema, ended a 55-year period under the Bongo dynasty, following the ousting of Ali Bongo, who governed after taking over from his father, Omar Bongo. Meanwhile, leaders from neighboring countries, such as Equatorial Guinea’s Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, have publicly backed Nguema’s run for presidency, urging Gabonese citizens to support him for a promising future.

Amidst the backdrop of economic challenges, where a third of Gabon’s population lives in poverty despite the country’s substantial natural resource wealth, critiques persist from opposition and civil society groups. They have been pressing Nguema to fulfill his commitment to restore civilian power following the transitional period.

General Brice Oligui Nguema’s declaration for the presidency marks a significant moment in Gabon’s political landscape, as the country transitions from military rule with hopes of improved governance. While he garners public support, political opposition emphasizes the need for a genuine return to civilian leadership after the elections. Gabon faces pressing economic issues that complicate the road ahead for any potential administration.

Original Source: www.bbc.com