Gabon Prepares for Historic Presidential Election Post-Coup

Gabon will vote in its first presidential election since the 2023 coup, led by Brice Oligui Nguema, aiming to establish legitimacy and stability. His main opponent, Alain Claude Bilie By Nze, seeks to distance himself from the previous Bongo regime. While Nguema enjoys popularity, concerns loom regarding the country’s over-reliance on oil and the need for governance reform.

Gabon is set to conduct its presidential election on Saturday, marking the first since the military coup in 2023, which ended the Bongo family’s 56-year reign. The new military authorities are looking to legitimize their power through this electoral process. The coup, led by Brice Oligui Nguema, was part of a broader trend of instability in West and Central Africa, where democratic progress has been increasingly undermined.

Brice Oligui Nguema, who assumed control of the transitional government following the coup, has declared his candidacy for the forthcoming election. His principal competitor is Alain Claude Bilie By Nze, the former prime minister under Ali Bongo, who has formed the movement “Together for Gabon” to differentiate himself from the previous regime. Political analysts predict Nguema has a substantial advantage due to his incumbency and significant public support as a symbol of change from the prior government.

Despite Nguema’s popularity, he maintains a strong grip on power through institutions populated by his loyalists. He has expressed a vision for Gabon to “rise from the ashes,” projecting himself as the architect of a future nation. This message resonates with many citizens of the sparsely populated country of approximately 2.5 million, where a privileged elite thrived while the majority struggled economically.

The backdrop to Nguema’s rise includes widespread discontent towards Ali Bongo’s administration, highlighted by the violent protests following the controversial 2016 election. Since the coup, the transitional government has initiated various infrastructure projects, which have contributed to a modest economic growth forecast of 2.9% for 2024, up from 2.4% in 2023. Nevertheless, Gabon’s dependency on declining oil exports remains a challenge.

The upcoming election has generated hopes for enhanced governance and improved living standards in sectors such as education, health, and infrastructure. Civil society figures, like Pépecy Ogouliguendé, have voiced aspirations for the election results to usher in greater transparency and accountability from the government. Polling stations will operate from 8 am to 6 pm local time, with results anticipated later that evening.

The presidential election in Gabon represents a crucial juncture for the country following the recent military coup. With Brice Oligui Nguema positioned as the likely winner, the election will not only determine leadership but also signal the potential for returning to democratic governance. Voter outcomes will be pivotal in addressing long-standing issues of economic reliance on oil and improving living conditions for the Gabonese populace.

Original Source: www.thestar.com.my