Gabon Junta Leader General Brice Olighi Nguema to Run for President

General Brice Olighi Nguema, leader of Gabon’s military junta, has announced his candidacy for the presidential elections on April 12, 2024. He aims to rebuild the nation and has adopted a more approachable public image. If elected, he will permanently retire from military service; if not, he will return to the armed forces.

The leader of Gabon’s military junta, General Brice Olighi Nguema, has officially declared his candidacy for the presidential elections scheduled for April 12, 2024. This announcement follows his rise to power after the coup that ousted the Bongo dynasty in 2023. According to reports from Agence France-Presse, General Nguema intends to continue the junta’s mission of rebuilding the nation.

During a gathering in Libreville, General Nguema articulated his vision for Gabon, stating, My vision is for a Gabon that rises from the ashes. This vision is not just a dream; we will realize it together. He emphasized collaboration with the people, asserting his identity as a “builder” and requesting their courage and strength for this process. He further claimed divine inspiration, saying, “The Holy Spirit spoke to me, that is why I am here before you.”

General Nguema recently celebrated his 50th birthday and has committed to returning power to civilians at the conclusion of the transition period. However, a new electoral code passed in January permits military personnel to participate in elections. The junta specified that he must take a temporary leave from military service to run for office.

In the event of a successful election, General Nguema will retire permanently from military service, ensuring that he will not wear a uniform again. If unsuccessful, he is expected to return to military duties. Despite a 28-year military career, the junta assured that a seven-year term would not alter his pragmatic approach to leadership.

As the deadline for nominations approaches on March 8, candidates must undergo a language test, medical examination, and asset declaration. General Nguema seeks to reshape his public image since taking power, shifting from a strict military leader to a more approachable figure, engaging with citizens in casual settings and wearing civilian attire.

Gabonians, weary from years of unmet promises, view General Nguema as a pragmatic, charismatic leader. However, there are concerns regarding public expectations, as noted by Gabonactu, highlighting that high hopes may lead to disappointment if not fulfilled.

In summary, General Brice Olighi Nguema, the newly-appointed leader of Gabon’s military junta, has declared his candidacy for the upcoming presidential elections with a vision of rebuilding the nation. He aims to construct a positive public persona, engaging with citizens in a more relatable manner. Despite the challenges ahead, he must navigate high public expectations while retaining his commitment to returning power to civilians by the end of the transition period.

Original Source: fakti.bg