Gabon’s Coup Leader Cleared to Run for President in Upcoming Election

Gabon’s Constitutional Court has approved Brice Oligui Nguema, head of the transitional government after the 2023 coup, to run in the upcoming presidential election on April 12. A new constitution allows his candidacy, raising concerns about the junta’s motives. Nguema will compete against former Prime Minister Alain Claude Billie By Nze and other notable candidates.

The Constitutional Court of Gabon has approved eight candidates for the forthcoming presidential election, scheduled for April 12. Among these candidates is Brice Oligui Nguema, the current head of the transitional government that has governed since a military coup in 2023. Traditionally, leaders of transitional governments are prohibited from participating in elections, yet a newly enacted constitution in November allows Nguema to run, raising questions about the junta’s motives

Nguema ended the Bongo family’s prolonged dominance in Gabon and is set to face significant competition, most notably from former Prime Minister Alain Claude Billie By Nze, who is regarded as his primary opponent. Additional candidates include Gninga Chaning Zenaba, the only female contender, and Stephane Germain Iloko Boussengui, a former member of the Gabonese Democratic Party, which held power prior to the coup.

In conclusion, Brice Oligui Nguema’s candidacy for Gabon’s presidential election indicates a significant shift in the political landscape. While he is capitalizing on a constitutional amendment that allows him to run, concerns about the overarching intentions of the military junta persist, especially as he will face recognized opponents in the upcoming election.

Original Source: www.africa.com