Gabon’s Military Leader Brice Nguema to Run for President in April 2025 Election

General Brice Nguema, Gabon’s military leader, will run for president in the April 12, 2025 election, following a coup against the Bongo family. He has pledged to address infrastructure and national debt issues, while temporarily stepping down from his military post during the campaign. His approach includes engaging younger voters and fulfilling electoral processes by March 8.

General Brice Nguema, Gabon’s military leader, has officially declared his candidacy for the presidency in the forthcoming election scheduled for April 12, 2025. Nguema, who led a coup in August 2023 to end the Bongo family’s long-standing rule, had previously committed to restoring civilian governance after a transitional phase. A recent change in electoral regulations now permits military members and magistrates to run for office, enabling his decision to enter the race.

Addressing supporters in the capital city of Libreville on Monday, Nguema, who recently turned 50, stated, “After careful reflection and in response to your many appeals, I’ve decided to be a candidate in the April 12 presidential election.” He voiced a hopeful vision of a Gabon “rising from the ashes” and vowed to tackle critical infrastructural issues facing the nation while positioning himself as a leader focused on national reconstruction.

In accordance with electoral guidelines, Nguema will temporarily relinquish his military uniform during the campaign period, returning to it post-election. His communication team confirmed through social media that should he win, he would remain in office without his military attire, whereas a loss would see him revert to his military role.

Recent public appearances, including a large military rally and a church event honoring him with dove releases, have bolstered his visibility. Despite rumors of his resignation from military duties, official statements have reinforced that he will maintain his military status until after the elections.

To engage younger voters, who constitute nearly half of Gabon’s population, Nguema has distributed free concert tickets to popular local artist L’Oiseau Rare. Candidates must declare their intentions by March 8, undergoing assessments that include language proficiency tests and medical examinations, while several other potential challengers have already withdrawn from the race.

Throughout his campaign, Nguema has made commitments to address Gabon’s persistent power shortages and the significant national debt, which currently stands at 70 percent of the country’s GDP. With national debt approximately totaling $12 billion as of 2023, these economic challenges have been pivotal in his electoral platform, highlighted by Gabon’s wealth in natural resources such as oil, timber, and manganese.

In summary, General Brice Nguema’s candidacy for the presidency marks a significant development in Gabon’s political landscape following his military coup in 2023. His appeal to the electorate, particularly the youth, is evident through his initiatives and commitments to resolving pressing national issues like infrastructure and debt. As the election date approaches, the need for a competitive yet fair electoral process will be paramount to ensuring Gabon’s future governance.

Original Source: punchng.com