Gabon’s military leader who orchestrated the 2023 coup that ended nearly six decades of dynastic rule in the country, has secured a landslide victory in the country’s recent presidential election.
According to preliminary results, General Brice Oligui Nguema garnered over 90% of the votes, solidifying his authority and cementing his position as the nation’s leader.
Critics had raised concerns that the newly established constitution and electoral regulations were crafted to facilitate Nguema’s ascension to the presidency.
Several prominent opposition figures were barred from participating, which further diminished the competitive landscape of the election.
Despite these challenges, Nguema’s victory was anticipated due to his popularity and the general approval of the coup that ousted President Ali Bongo’s regime.
Nguema, aged 50, faced seven other contenders, including former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie-by-Nze, who served under the Bongo administration. Bilie-by-Nze managed to secure just over 3% of the votes, highlighting the significant gap between Nguema and his closest rival.
The election saw a high turnout of over 70% of registered voters, with authorities and some observers praising the process as transparent and peaceful. However, there were reports of irregularities, including delays at polling stations and concerns about the security of unmarked ballots.
Nguema’s win grants him a seven-year mandate, providing him with the resources to address corruption and poor governance issues that plagued Gabon under the Bongo dynasty.
Despite Gabon’s wealth from oil and timber, about a third of its population lives in poverty. Nguema has pledged to diversify the economy and improve living conditions, which resonated with many Gabonese citizens eager for change.
Nguema’s embrace of democracy is notable because, unlike many military leaders who seize power, he has committed to transitioning to a civilian government through elections. This approach has earned him both praise and skepticism, as some view his actions as a genuine attempt to democratize Gabon, while others see it as a strategic move to legitimize his rule.
Despite these mixed perceptions, Nguema’s victory marks a significant shift in Gabon’s political landscape, as the country moves away from dynastic rule towards a more democratic governance model.
Source: Africafeeds.com
