General Brice Oligui Nguema announced his candidacy for Gabon’s presidential elections on March 1, 2025, following a military coup that ousted Ali Bongo Ondimba in August 2023. His intention to run is met with criticism, as opposition groups demand adherence to a promise of civilian governance amid concerns about electoral reforms favoring his presidency.
General Brice Oligui Nguema, who ascended to power in Gabon following a military coup in August 2023, has announced his candidacy for the presidential elections slated for April 2025. This declaration was made on March 1, 2025, where General Nguema stated that his decision was made after “careful reflection and in response to the many appeals” from the Gabonese populace. He emphasized his commitment, declaring, “I am a builder, and I need your courage, your strength, to build this country.”
In the aftermath of the coup that removed President Ali Bongo Ondimba from power, General Nguema promised to lead a transition towards civilian governance. However, critics have raised concerns that the constitutional and electoral reforms he has implemented are aimed at facilitating his own presidency rather than genuine democratization.
Meanwhile, opposition parties and civil society leaders are urging General Nguema to adhere to his initial commitment regarding a civilian administration post-transition. The Bongo family governed Gabon for an extended period, with Omar Bongo presiding over the nation for 41 years until his demise in 2009, succeeded by his son, Ali Bongo, who governed for 14 years until his overthrow.
During the coup in August 2023, Ali Bongo made a televised plea for the citizens of Gabon to resist the military takeover; however, his call went largely unheeded as many citizens celebrated the end of the Bongo family’s lengthy reign. As the elections draw near on April 12, 2025, there remains significant interest in General Nguema’s political ambitions and the future of Gabon’s democratic transition.
In summary, General Brice Oligui Nguema has announced his run for the presidency in upcoming Gabonese elections, following his rise to power through a coup. His commitment to transition towards civilian rule faces criticism amid calls for true democratic leadership from opposition factions. The political landscape remains uncertain as the elections approach, highlighting the need for Gabon to fulfill its promise of democratic governance following decades of authoritarian rule by the Bongo family.
Original Source: www.tv47.digital
