Gabon’s Military Leader Brice Oligui Nguema to Contest Presidential Election
Gabon’s military leader, Brice Oligui Nguema, will face three challengers in the April 12, 2025 presidential election, including former Prime Minister Alain-Claude Bilie By Nze. A total of 23 candidates applied, but only four were accepted, with many others denied without explanation. Oligui promises a return to civilian rule after a transitional period and will campaign starting March 29.
Gabon’s military leader, Brice Oligui Nguema, is set to compete against three candidates in the forthcoming presidential election scheduled for April 12, 2025. The definitive list of candidates was released on Sunday, confirming Oligui’s participation in the race.
Among his challengers is Alain-Claude Bilie By Nze, the last prime minister under deposed President Ali Bongo Ondimba, recognized as Oligui’s most formidable competitor. Additionally, lawyer Joseph Lapensee Essingone and doctor Stéphane Germain Iloko Boussengui will also contest against him.
The Interior Minister, Hermann Immongault, reported that 23 candidates submitted applications, but only four were accepted. The reasons for the rejection of 19 applications, including that of notable trade unionist Jean-Remy Yama, were not disclosed, although those rejected may appeal to the Constitutional Court.
Oligui announced his candidacy on March 3, promising to restore power to civilian governance following a transitional period. A newly enacted electoral code permits military personnel to pursue office, facilitating Oligui’s candidacy as an independent candidate, which he officially filed on Saturday. Campaign activities will commence on March 29; however, the date for a potential second round has yet to be determined.
In summary, Brice Oligui Nguema will contend against three candidates, including his significant opponent Alain-Claude Bilie By Nze, in the presidential election on April 12, 2025. With the recent electoral code enabling military officers to run for office, Oligui has positioned himself for the election after announcing his independent candidacy. The electoral landscape is shaped by a restrictive candidate selection process, raising questions about democratic participation in Gabon.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
