General Brice Nguema Announces Presidential Candidacy for April 2025 Election
General Brice Nguema of Gabon announced his candidacy for the presidential election scheduled for April 12, 2025, following his coup against the Bongo family in 2023. He emphasized infrastructure improvements and engaging with youth voters while navigating electoral requirements as a military leader. His pledges include addressing power shortages and national debt as he campaigns in a competitive landscape.
General Brice Nguema, the military leader of Gabon, announced his candidacy for the presidential election set for April 12, 2025. Following his coup in August 2023, which unseated the longstanding Bongo family rule, he initially intended to restore civilian governance. However, alterations to the electoral code now permit military personnel to stand for election, paving the way for his involvement.
During a recent address in Libreville, General Nguema, who recently turned 50, expressed, “After careful reflection and in response to your many appeals, I’ve decided to be a candidate in the April 12 presidential election.” He articulated a vision for transforming Gabon and prioritizing infrastructure issues, asserting his commitment to being a “builder” dedicated to national reconstruction.
As he prepares for his campaign, Nguema must temporarily relinquish his military uniform while he runs for office, though he will revert to it pending the election results. His official communication platform states, “At the end of the election period, he will again wear his military uniform while awaiting the results.”
Despite rumors of his resignation from military duties, Nguema has affirmed his intent to maintain his status until after the election. In an effort to engage younger voters, he recently distributed complimentary concert tickets for a performance by the local artist, L’Oiseau Rare, helping to bolster his public appeal.
Candidates are required to announce their intentions by March 8 and undergo evaluations that include a language test and medical examination. While other contenders have withdrawn, Nguema is expected to face considerable competition. He has committed to addressing significant issues such as Gabon’s extensive power outages and rising national debt, which currently stands at 70 percent of the GDP, equal to approximately $12 billion.
In summary, General Brice Nguema has declared his candidacy for Gabon’s upcoming presidential election, a pivotal move following his military takeover in 2023. While he aims to dismantle longstanding issues such as infrastructure deficits and national debt, he must navigate the intricacies of electoral requirements while maintaining military discipline. His efforts to resonate with younger voters and his ambitious pledges will shape the dynamics of the election this April.
Original Source: punchng.com
