General Brice Oligui Nguema, leader of Gabon’s military junta, has announced his candidacy for the April presidential elections following the coup that ousted Ali Bongo. His popularity remains high, demonstrated by overwhelming approval for the new constitution. While the new electoral code may favor military candidates like Nguema, opposition voices raise concerns about fairness in the electoral process.
General Brice Oligui Nguema, leader of Gabon’s military junta, has officially declared his candidacy for the presidential elections slated for April 12. This announcement comes after the August 2023 coup that removed former president Ali Bongo Ondimba. Nguema stated during a gathering in Libreville that his decision to run was made following “careful reflection” and in response to numerous appeals from the Gabonese populace, indicating popular support for his leadership.
The recent constitutional referendum demonstrated Nguema’s significant public backing, with an overwhelming majority of over 90 percent approving the new constitution. Political scientist Herbert Mba Aki remarked that the referendum’s results were largely because the populace viewed their votes as support for the president rather than the content of the new constitution.
The new constitutional provisions prevent sequential family successions in presidential office, addressing concerns over the Bongo family’s long-standing rule. Nonetheless, the constitution maintains a powerful presidential system with the authority for the president to dissolve the National Assembly and eligibility for two consecutive seven-year terms.
A new electoral code enacted by the transitional parliament permits members of the military and magistrates to run for office. Critics argue that this provision benefits Nguema and his military associates, suggesting that the law could hinder fair competition. Although some opposition groups desired restrictions on transitional government members from running, current political dynamics favor Nguema’s continuity in power.
Nguema ascended to prominence following the abrupt announcement of Ali Bongo’s re-election, which included allegations of electoral fraud and public unrest. He assumed interim leadership after the coup, committing to the restoration of civilian governance through credible electoral processes. Meanwhile, Parliamentary adjustments earlier that year altered term lengths to five years, even though term limits were eliminated, further complicating the political landscape amid his anticipated candidacy.
In summary, General Brice Oligui Nguema’s entry into the upcoming presidential election marks a significant moment in Gabon’s transition towards civilian rule. His strong public support following the coup, along with favorable constitutional changes and electoral regulations, positions him as a strong candidate. However, the implications of the newly adopted electoral code and ongoing criticisms from opposition factions underscore the complexities of Gabon’s political future.
Original Source: www.okayafrica.com
