In a historic electoral moment, Gabon is gearing up to cast ballots devoid of the long-standing Bongo influence. Citizens express hopes for renewal, though skepticism remains regarding the authenticity of the change provided by Oligui Nguema.
Gabon braces for potential shift in leadership as coup leader vies for presidency
Gabon braces for potential shift in leadership as coup leader vies for presidency
As Gabon prepares for presidential elections, the spotlight is on General Brice Oligui Nguema, the transitional leader who promises change after decades of Bongo family rule.
In the heart of Gabon’s capital, Libreville, a palpable sense of anticipation surrounds the upcoming presidential elections. General Brice Oligui Nguema, who led a coup in August 2023, now stands as a candidate, positioning himself as a harbinger of renewal after more than five decades of Bongo family dominance. Amid a youth unemployment rate soaring at 40%, Oligui Nguema’s initiative to distribute 800 vehicles through a hire purchase scheme reflects a commitment to providing opportunities, symbolized by aspiring taxi driver Landry Obame-Mezui's new "Taxi Gab+".
Obame-Mezui's unwavering support for Oligui Nguema is evident as he declares his intention to vote for the "builder" of Gabon, anticipating a large victory. However, as citizens prepare to head to the polls, the air is thick with a mix of excitement and apprehension. Billboards featuring Oligui Nguema’s visage dominate the landscape, yet apathy, especially amongst younger voters, resonates. Shonnys Akoulatele, a potential voter, articulates a general disconnection with the candidates, criticizing them for continuity rather than transformative change.
Diverse candidates also competing, including Alain Claude Bilie-by-Nze, a former prime minister under previous regimes, face scrutiny as they attempt to distance themselves from the scrutinized past. Despite promises of tackling corruption and constructing new infrastructure, doubt lingers as expressed by residents like Jacques Okoumba, who feels that the initial wave of hope has been tempered by unmet expectations.
As Gabon navigates this electoral landscape for the first time without a Bongo or PDG party presence, political analysts like Bergès Mietté emphasize that true political transition necessitates a thorough renewal of the governing elite. Critics also raise concerns about the new constitution's design favoring Oligui Nguema, pointing towards age limitations on candidates that eliminate older opposition figures.
Nevertheless, many Gabonese view this election as an opportunity for retribution against past grievances, marking a pivotal juncture in their history. With both hope and skepticism in the air, Gabon is on the brink of defining its future as it heads to the polls.
