General Oligui Declares Presidential Candidacy Amidst Economic Challenges in Gabon

Gabon’s military leader, General Brice Oligui Nguema, has declared his candidacy for the April presidential election, contrary to promises of civilian rule. His campaign will focus on national rebuilding and addressing economic issues, amid critiques that he represents continuity of the former regime. Candidates must apply by March 8, with doubts persisting about the authenticity of any reform under his leadership.

General Brice Oligui Nguema, the military ruler of Gabon who came to power following a coup in 2023, has officially declared his candidacy for the presidential election scheduled for April 2024. His announcement contradicted earlier promises to restore civilian governance after the ousting of Ali Bongo Ondimba. In Libreville, Oligui stated, “After careful reflection and in response to your many appeals, I’ve decided to be a candidate in the April 12 presidential election.”

Oligui’s campaign agenda emphasizes national reconstruction, infrastructure development, and resolving persistent power outages. Addressing supporters in adverse weather, he proclaimed, “I am a builder, and I need your courage, your strength, to build this country.” His decision to run comes in light of recently modified electoral regulations enabling military personnel and judges to seek political office.

According to his communications team, Oligui will temporarily relinquish his military title to campaign. In the event he is not elected, he would revert to military service; however, if he achieves victory, he will assume the role of a civilian leader. Recent public engagements, including appearances at military events and church services, aim to strengthen his rapport with Gabonese citizens, particularly the youth.

Despite Oligui’s reforms, there is skepticism regarding any substantial departure from the longstanding Bongo regime’s governance style. Critics highlight his extensive history under the Bongo administration as a basis for concern, suggesting that his leadership might merely perpetuate the existing system. Gabon faces significant economic challenges, with a national debt of $12 billion estimated at 70% of its GDP, amidst criticisms from the International Monetary Fund regarding fiscal stability.

The Oligui administration attributes the nation’s financial struggles to the “catastrophic legacy” left by the Bongo government. Candidates for the upcoming presidential election must submit their documents by March 8 and fulfill various prerequisites, including a medical evaluation and an asset declaration. Notably, reports have surfaced that about 20 prospective competitors have already opted out of the electoral contest.

As Oligui presents himself as a leader poised to navigate Gabon towards a promising future, significant doubts linger about whether his potential presidency will signal true governance reform or simply a continuation of the militaristic influences from the past.

General Brice Oligui Nguema’s entry into the Gabonese presidential race raises critical questions about governance reform amidst ongoing economic challenges. His administration’s efforts to distance itself from the historical Bongo regime face skepticism, despite an appeal for public support. The upcoming election will serve as a pivotal test for Oligui, determining whether he can genuinely redefine Gabon’s political landscape or merely reinforce established power structures.

Original Source: newscentral.africa