Voters in Gabon are heading to the polls to select their next president, marking a significant moment as it is the first election in decades without a member of the Bongo family on the ballot. This shift comes after former President Ali Bongo was ousted from power 19 months ago by General Brice Oligui Nguema, who has since amended the constitution to allow himself to run in the upcoming election.
Eight candidates compete for presidency
A total of eight candidates are vying for the presidency, including Gninga Chaning Zenaba, the sole woman in the race. Other notable contenders include former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie-by-Nze, who was part of the previous Bongo administration, and established figures from the former ruling party, PDG, such as Stéphane Germain Iloko and Alain Simplice Boungouères.
The electoral results are expected to begin being announced on Sunday, although counting may extend into the following week. Approximately one million voters are anticipated to cast their ballots, both within Gabon and among its diaspora.
Socioeconomic concerns overshadow campaign
Despite Gabon’s wealth from oil and timber, the nation, which has a population of just 2.5 million, grapples with significant poverty, with about 35% living below the $2 (£1.50) daily income threshold. During the two-week campaign period, candidates focused on reaching voters in rural areas, while political rallies in the capital city, Libreville, were notably limited.
The streets of Libreville are heavily adorned with campaign posters and billboards supporting Oligui Nguema, while the visibility of his opponents’ advertisements remains scarce. “I will vote for the builder Oligui Nguema,” stated taxi driver Landry Obame-Mezui, expressing his support for the junta leader’s approach which he perceives as prioritizing action over rhetoric.
“Our expectation is to have a new Gabon that is well-governed, well-managed, where there is social justice, equity and equal chances,” said registered voter Noel Kounta.
However, Oligui Nguema has faced criticism over what many perceive as an inequitable transitional and electoral process. His introduction of a new constitution and electoral code appears designed to benefit his candidacy, contradicting his promise to transfer power to civilians. An upper age limit was also implemented, disqualifying popular opposition figure Albert Ondo Ossa.
Bilie-by-Nze, seen as one of Oligui Nguema’s main rivals, has remarked, “Go back to the barracks,” underscoring his stance for change while acknowledging the criticisms he faces due to his association with the previous regime. Gabonese citizens have voiced their desire for an end to years of corruption, cronyism, and unemployment that plagued their nation during 55 years under the rule of Omar Bongo and his son, Ali Bongo.
Voter Shonnys Akoulatele emphasized the urgent need for job creation, stating, “The unemployment rate is so high, so they should at least show some compassion towards this issue, especially in the private sector.” Polls are scheduled to close at 18:00 local time (17:00 GMT) on Saturday, as the nation awaits the outcome of this pivotal election.