General Oligui Declares Candidacy for Gabon’s Presidential Election

Gabon’s military ruler, General Brice Oligui Nguema, has announced his presidential candidacy despite previous promises to restore civilian rule after a coup in 2023. He cites public demand as a motivation and focuses his campaign on rebuilding the nation. Concerns remain about continuity with the Bongo regime. As the election approaches, many question whether genuine change will occur or if it will merely perpetuate past governance.

General Brice Oligui Nguema, the military leader of Gabon who took power in a 2023 coup, has officially announced his candidacy for the presidential elections scheduled for April. This decision comes despite his previous commitment to restore civilian governance following the removal of former President Ali Bongo Ondimba.

In his speech delivered in Libreville, Oligui cited public demand as a key reason for his candidacy, stating, “After careful reflection and in response to your many appeals, I’ve decided to be a candidate in the April 12 presidential election.” He emphasized his campaign’s focus on national reconstruction, infrastructure improvement, and resolving the ongoing electricity problems.

Recent modifications to Gabon’s electoral code, which were sanctioned by the transitional parliament, now permit military personnel and judges to run for public office. As per these modified regulations, Oligui will temporarily relinquish his military uniform to participate in the campaign. His communication team indicated, “If he’s not elected, he will return to the barracks.”

Public appearances have been a cornerstone of Oligui’s outreach strategy, including a recent military rally and a church event where doves were released in his honor. His team has aimed to connect with citizens, particularly the youth, through populist initiatives such as distributing free concert tickets.

Critics express skepticism regarding the extent of reform under Oligui, noting his long-standing association with the Bongo regime. Observers question whether his leadership genuinely represents a departure from the established political framework or merely continues the existing system.

Economically, Gabon faces significant challenges, with national debt standing at 70% of its GDP despite the country’s rich reserves of oil, timber, and manganese. The International Monetary Fund has raised alarms concerning Gabon’s fiscal health amidst a mounting debt of $12 billion. Oligui’s administration contends that these financial difficulties stem from the “catastrophic legacy of the Bongo regime.”

The deadline for candidates to officially submit their candidacies is set for March 8, which includes various prerequisites such as a language evaluation and medical assessments. Reports suggest that a significant number of potential rivals to Oligui have already opted out of the race, consolidating his position.

While General Oligui strives to present himself as a transformative leader for Gabon’s future, uncertainties linger regarding whether his presidency would signify an authentic change in governance or merely perpetuate a military-influenced continuity of the past.

General Brice Oligui Nguema’s entry into the presidential race positions him amidst complex political dynamics and public aspiration for reform in Gabon. With his background under the Bongo regime, many question the legitimacy of his candidacy as a true departure from the old guard. As election day approaches, the potential for change remains uncertain amid economic challenges and a landscape of limited opposition.

Original Source: newscentral.africa