Gen. Brice Oligui Nguema, the military leader of Gabon, has announced his candidacy for the presidency in the upcoming April 12 elections, following his coup that ended the Bongo family’s rule. His decision comes amid criticism regarding the junta’s new constitution favoring his election. Nguema expressed his commitment to improving the country while facing pressure from opposition groups to uphold promises of a return to civilian governance.
General Brice Oligui Nguema, the military leader of Gabon, has publicly declared his candidacy for the presidency in the upcoming election scheduled for April 12, 2024. This announcement comes nearly a year after he led a coup that ended the Bongo family’s prolonged governance. Despite initial promises to return power to civilian authorities, the junta has since established a new constitution and electoral framework perceived by critics as favoring Nguema’s presidential ambition.
In a speech to supporters in Libreville, Nguema emphasized his commitment to transforming the oil-rich nation, stating his need for the people’s support: “I am a builder and I need your courage, your strength, to build this country.” His declaration follows considerable speculation regarding his intentions to formally assume the presidency.
Furthermore, General Nguema has indicated to military personnel his awareness of their support for his candidacy and encouraged a favorable vote among them. The transition from a military position to a presidential candidate has raised questions; however, his spokesman clarified that Nguema would temporarily relinquish his military attire during the electoral campaign. A related Facebook page mentioned that should Nguema win the election, he would permanently leave military service, while a loss would result in his return to the barracks.
The junta, led by Nguema, has been credited with ending a 55-year reign of the Bongo dynasty, which had seen Ali Bongo in power for 14 years after succeeding his father, Omar Bongo. The leader of Equatorial Guinea, Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, has also encouraged the Gabonese populace to support Nguema for a better future. However, opposition groups continue to implore Nguema to remain true to his commitment of restoring civilian governance after the transition.
Despite Gabon’s abundant oil resources and expansive forests, the United Nations reports that one-third of the nation’s 2.4 million residents live below the poverty line, highlighting the socioeconomic challenges that persist.
General Brice Oligui Nguema’s declaration to run for the presidency marks a significant phase in Gabon’s political landscape following the coup that ousted the Bongo family. While he seeks to rally support from both the military and the populace, the overarching concern remains whether he will genuinely facilitate a transition to civilian governance should he win. The socioeconomic issues facing Gabon call for effective leadership, making this electoral outcome particularly consequential.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
