Gabon Coup Leader Brice Oligui Nguema Aims for Seven-Year Presidential Mandate

Brice Oligui Nguema, the coup leader of Gabon, is campaigning for the presidency with a focus on economic change and anti-corruption. He faces Alain Claude Bilie By Nze as his main challenger. The election, scheduled for Saturday, is expected to favor Nguema significantly due to public approval post-coup. Voter concerns center on basic services like electricity, highlighted by persistent power cuts in the capital.

In Gabon, coup leader Brice Oligui Nguema is seeking to solidify his power ahead of a presidential election, which is anticipated to be heavily tilted in his favor. He led a coup 19 months ago to overthrow President Ali Bongo, ending a longstanding family rule. Nguema, who has been interim leader, is campaigning on promises to combat corruption and transform the economy, which heavily relies on oil.

During his campaign, Nguema has embraced the slogan “We Build Together” and emphasized diversification of Gabon’s economy to promote agriculture and tourism, as one-third of the population lives in poverty. In his final rally in Owendo, he expressed his commitment, stating, “We have liberated the country to give its people hope.”

Polling for the election is set to commence at 7 a.m. local time, with results expected on Sunday. The victor will secure a renewable seven-year term. His main opponent, Alain Claude Bilie By Nze, who served as prime minister under Bongo, aims to distance himself from the former regime while questioning Nguema’s capabilities.

Analysts note that Nguema is leading the polls due to public approval of the coup and his active presence during the campaign. In contrast, Nze’s association with the previous government, accused of electoral fraud, weakens his position to criticize Nguema. Florence Bernault, a historian, stated, “He doesn’t seem to be very well placed to criticize.”

Approximately 900,000 voters are registered in Gabon, a country of 2.5 million, with additional voters abroad. Gabon’s economy is projected to have grown by 2.9% in 2024, yet many residents are troubled by frequent power outages, which have become a significant concern. Electrician Herve Regis Ossouami highlighted, “We talk about it every day … we don’t want to have this anymore, these daily power cuts.”

In conclusion, Brice Oligui Nguema seeks to establish his authority through the upcoming presidential election in Gabon following his coup against President Ali Bongo. His campaign focuses on economic diversification and addressing national challenges, particularly basic services like power supply. Nguema’s significant support reflects a public yearning for change after longstanding rule, while his main opponent’s ties to the old administration may limit his electoral success. Citizens remain vocal about their desire for improvements in essential utilities, indicating a pivotal election ahead.

Original Source: www.straitstimes.com