Gabon heads to the polls on Saturday in a landmark presidential election, with junta leader General Brice Oligui Nguema the clear frontrunner to become the Central African nation’s first elected leader since he seized power in a coup last August. The vote marks a critical moment for Gabon, an oil-rich country seeking stability after decades of dynastic rule under the Bongo family, which was widely accused of corruption and mismanagement.
Oligui, a 50-year-old career soldier who toppled Ali Bongo after disputed elections, has campaigned as the “candidate of the people,” leveraging social media and large rallies to soften his military image. His slogan, “C’BON” (a play on French for “It’s good” and his initials), dominates Libreville, while his rivals struggle for visibility. Supporters praise his early reforms, but critics accuse him of perpetuating the Bongo-era patronage system he once served.
His main challenger, former Prime Minister Alain-Claude Bilie By Nze, has run a low-key campaign, positioning himself as the break from the past. Despite his ties to the Bongo regime, Bilie By Nze has admitted its failures and warned of a “marching dictatorship” under Oligui. Six other candidates, including the race’s sole woman, Zenaba Gninga Chaning, face an uphill battle against the junta chief’s well-funded machinery.
The election comes amid economic struggles, with Gabon’s debt soaring to 73.3% of GDP and a third of the population living in poverty despite vast oil and mineral wealth. Voters demand better infrastructure, jobs, and economic diversification a tall order for the next leader.
While the junta promises transparency, analysts like Lysiane Neyer Kenga note Oligui’s campaign mirrors the Bongos’ personality cult, raising concerns about democratic backsliding. Yet, after years of electoral crises and unrest, many Gabonese hope this vote will restore constitutional order.
Results are expected by April 16. Whether Gabon transitions to civilian rule or entrenches military dominance hinges on the credibility of this election and whether Oligui’s “historic victory” aligns with the people’s will.
