Gabon Junta Leader Nguema Announces Presidential Bid for April Election

General Brice Oligui Nguema, the military leader of Gabon, has declared his candidacy for the presidency in the April 12 election. He seized power in 2023 through a coup, ending the Bongo family’s long rule, and has since faced criticism over constitutional changes perceived to favor his bid. Nguema aims to address the nation’s struggles despite significant poverty among its citizens.

General Brice Oligui Nguema, the military leader of Gabon, has officially declared his candidacy for the presidency in the upcoming April 12 election. Following his coup in 2023, which ended the lengthy rule of the Bongo family, Nguema had promised to return power to civilians. However, amendments to the constitution and electoral laws have raised concerns about their genuineness, with critics suggesting they are tailored to benefit his presidential ambitions.

In a statement made to the Gabonese populace, Nguema expressed his decision to enter the race after considerable reflection and due to the public’s encouragement. During a rally in Libreville, he emphasized his commitment to transform the oil-rich nation’s fortunes, stating, “I am a builder and I need your courage, your strength, to build this country.”

Speculation surrounding Nguema’s political intentions has been rife, culminating in his declaration to military supporters who expressed a desire for him to seek election. He acknowledged their sentiments, asserting, “I listened to you and, believe me, I understood you,” while promising to keep them informed in due course.

While there were rumors about Nguema needing to resign from military service to run for office, his spokesperson confirmed that he would temporarily don civil attire for the election. A Facebook page linked to Nguema specified that should he win, he would permanently leave the military, while failing to win would result in his return to military service.

Under Nguema’s leadership, the junta is credited with dismantling the 55-year Bongo dynasty, following Ali Bongo’s 14-year reign after succeeding his father, Omar Bongo, who held office for 41 years. Prominent voices, such as Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, the president of neighboring Equatorial Guinea, have urged the Gabonese citizens to support Nguema for a promising future.

Despite the country’s rich resources, including oil and expansive forests, poverty remains a pressing issue, with one-third of Gabon’s 2.4 million residents living below the poverty line, according to the United Nations. Opposition groups have called on Nguema to fulfill his commitment to transfer governance back to civilians following the transitional period.

General Brice Oligui Nguema’s announcement to run for the presidency has stirred significant discussion in Gabon, particularly regarding the timeline of political transitions following the coup. His promises to transform the nation and demands from military forces underscore a complex political landscape. The ongoing poverty issues further complicate the narrative, challenging the junta’s claims to enhance the country’s fortunes.

Original Source: www.bbc.com