Nearly two years after seizing power in a coup that ended over 50 years of Bongo family rule, Gabon’s military leader, Brice Oligui Nguema, has announced his candidacy for the upcoming April presidential election.
Nguema, who ousted President Ali Bongo in August 2023, had previously pledged to restore civilian governance following a transition period. In January, Gabon’s transitional Parliament passed a new electoral code allowing members of the military and magistrates to run for office, clearing the way for his bid.
Speaking in the capital, Nguema, 50, declared his presidential ambitions, envisioning a “Gabon rising from the ashes” and rallying public support for his campaign.
To officially enter the race, the former head of the presidential guard must step down from his current role, at least temporarily, as confirmed by the official Infos CTRI Facebook page. If he fails to win, the page noted, he will return to military barracks.
Gabon’s presidential election is set for April 12.
