General Brice Oligui Nguema to Contest Gabon Presidential Election

General Brice Oligui Nguema, the military ruler of Gabon, has declared his candidacy for the presidential election on April 12. This decision, inspired by public support following his coup against Ali Bongo Ondimba, reflects his popularity as a reformist leader. The recent constitutional changes and new electoral codes could facilitate his ascent and maintain military influence in governance.

General Brice Oligui Nguema, the military ruler of Gabon, has confirmed his candidacy for the presidential election scheduled for April 12. His announcement follows widespread public calls for him to run after he led a coup in August 2023, ousting former president Ali Bongo Ondimba. Nguema’s popularity among citizens, who regard him as a reformer, positions him as a leading candidate in the upcoming election.

While addressing supporters in Libreville, Nguema expressed that his decision to run came after significant consideration and in light of numerous appeals from the Gabonese populace. Notably, a constitutional referendum last November showcased Nguema’s high approval ratings, with over 90% voting in favor of a new constitution aimed at eliminating family succession in power, a measure introduced to prevent the Bongo family from extending a decades-long dynastic rule.

Despite this reform, the new constitution still maintains the hyper-presidential system, allowing the president to dissolve the National Assembly and securing a potential two consecutive terms of seven years. The transitional parliament has also adopted an electoral code permitting magistrates and security officials, including military members, to run for political office, a change criticized for seemingly favoring Nguema and his military associates.

Although opposition parties and civil organizations had argued for restrictions on transitional government members from running, the current political landscape appears to facilitate Nguema’s rise and that of his allies. Nguema’s regime took control following controversial elections that reinstated Bongo for a third term, further exacerbating public dissent and leading to allegations of electoral fraud. He has committed to restoring power to the people through a transparent electoral process, emphasizing the need for free and credible elections.

In summary, General Brice Oligui Nguema’s announcement to run for the presidency positions him as a significant contender in Gabon’s upcoming election, reflecting a strong public backing after leading a coup against Ali Bongo Ondimba. Both the new constitutional framework and electoral changes seem tailored to support Nguema’s leadership. The political dynamics reveal a shift towards military influence in governance, with potential implications for democracy in Gabon.

Original Source: www.okayafrica.com