In a historic turn, Gabon’s military ruler Gen Brice Oligui Nguema has claimed the presidency with over 90% of the vote, following the recent elections that followed his coup against the long-standing Bongo family rule. While many celebrate the end of the dynastic era, concerns about election integrity and political maneuvering persist.
Gabonese Military Leader Secures Presidential Victory with Overwhelming Support
Gabonese Military Leader Secures Presidential Victory with Overwhelming Support
Gabon’s Gen Brice Oligui Nguema rises to power following a decisive election victory, following the end of the Bongo dynasty era.
Gen Brice Oligui Nguema, the military leader who orchestrated a coup that dismantled a 60-year Bongo family reign in Gabon, has officially been declared the winner of Saturday's presidential election with over 90% of the votes cast, according to provisional results. The electoral win provides Nguema with a seven-year mandate, bolstered by a relieved electorate eager for change.
Critics, however, have noted that the new electoral framework appeared to favour Nguema, with key opposition figures barred from participating in the race. His challengers included former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie-by-Nze and two candidates from the once-dominant PDG party, but they could not effectively challenge Nguema's dominance at the polls.
"Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema is elected [president] by an absolute majority of votes cast, with 575,222 votes," Interior Minister Hermann Immongault announced. Bilie-by-Nze managed to secure slightly above 3% of the votes, a stark contrast to Nguema's overwhelming lead. The voter turnout reportedly surpassed 70%, suggesting a robust engagement from the populace, though some instances of voting irregularities were flagged by certain voters and Bilie-by-Nze himself.
With his election victory, Nguema now possesses the authority and resources necessary to confront the corruption and mismanagement that marred the Bongo leadership era. The former commander of the elite Republican Guard has captured the public's sentiment, promising to cleanse Gabon of the entrenched issues stemming from decades of dynastic rule. Gabon, rich in oil and timber, has a population of 2.5 million, yet approximately 35% live on under $2 a day, highlighting the economic challenges that lie ahead for the new administration.
