Gabon’s military leader, General Brice Oligui Nguema, has declared his intention to contest the presidential election scheduled for next month.
Nguema came to power in 2023 following a coup that ended the Bongo family’s lengthy rule. He had previously committed to transferring authority back to civilian governance.
However, the nation has since adopted a new constitution and electoral framework, which critics claim are tailored to facilitate Nguema’s presidential ambitions.
On Monday, Nguema addressed the Gabonese populace, stating that his decision to run in the April 12 election was made “after careful consideration and in response to your numerous requests.”
Speaking to supporters amidst heavy rain in the capital, Libreville, he expressed his determination to transform the fortunes of the oil-rich nation.
“I am a builder, and I need your courage and strength to develop this country,” said the coup leader, who recently celebrated his 50th birthday.
His announcement comes after months of speculation regarding his plans to officially seek the presidency.
During a meeting with military personnel on Saturday, Nguema acknowledged their desire for him to participate in the election and encouraged them to cast their votes.
He assured the defense forces that he had heard their appeals, stating, “I listened to you, and believe me, I understood you,” and promised to provide further updates in the coming days.
There had been rumors that Nguema had resigned from the military to qualify for the presidential race, but his spokesperson has since refuted this claim.
A Facebook page linked to Nguema clarified on Monday that he would temporarily set aside his military uniform while campaigning for the election.
The official page, Infos CTRI Officiel, indicated that he would need to resign from the military permanently if he were to win the election. It stated, “If he is not elected, he will return to the barracks.”
The junta led by Nguema is recognized for bringing an end to 55 years of the Bongo dynasty. Ali Bongo had been in power for 14 years before his ousting, having assumed the presidency following the death of his father, Omar Bongo, who held the position for 41 years.
Last month, Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, the president of neighboring Equatorial Guinea, urged the Gabonese populace to back Nguema for a brighter future for their nation.
However, several opposition and civil society organizations in Gabon have been calling on the military leader to fulfill his promise and transfer power to civilian authorities after the transitional period.
Despite Gabon’s significant oil resources and extensive forests, one-third of its 2.4 million citizens live below the poverty line, as reported by the UN.
