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GABON SETS APRIL 12 FOR PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION

GABON SETS APRIL 12 FOR PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION
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Faith Nyasuguta

Gabon’s transitional government has announced April 12 as the date for its presidential election, a critical step toward reinstating civilian governance after the August 2023 coup ended the Bongo family’s 55-year grip on power. 

This milestone decision was made during a council of ministers meeting led by military leader General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema in Libreville.

The August 2023 coup ousted President Ali Bongo Ondimba, who had ruled since 2009 following the death of his father, Omar Bongo, who had been in power for 41 years. Discontent over alleged corruption and poor governance during the Bongo dynasty fueled the military takeover. This coup was part of a wave of political upheavals in West and Central Africa, marking the eighth such event in the region between 2020 and 2023.

/Arab Pakistan News/

In November 2024, Gabon took a significant step toward reshaping its political framework by adopting a new constitution through a national referendum. The updated charter imposes a seven-year limit on presidential terms, prohibits dynastic transfers of power, and abolishes the position of prime minister. 

Further reforms came in January 2025, with the adoption of a new electoral code, which controversially allows military personnel to run for office under certain conditions, a departure from past rules.

To ensure transparency, the government has established an independent electoral agency to oversee the polls. This nine-member team is tasked with adhering to the new electoral code, which still awaits final approval from the Constitutional Court. 

Additionally, biometric voter registration began on January 2, aiming to update the electoral database by the end of the month. General Nguema, in his 2025 New Year’s address, urged all eligible citizens, particularly first-time voters, to register.

/Courtesy/

While General Nguema has not officially announced his candidacy, many believe he could enter the race, given the legal reforms permitting military officials to run for office. His potential candidacy has sparked debate, with critics accusing the ruling military of trying to secure its hold on power under the guise of democratic transition. Despite these concerns, the government has vowed to conduct free, fair, and credible elections.

This election is seen as a decisive moment for Gabon, signaling its potential return to the African Union, which suspended the country after the coup. The election’s success will play a crucial role in determining Gabon’s political future and its ability to achieve lasting stability. With the stakes high, the upcoming election could mark the dawn of a new chapter in Gabon’s history.

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Faith Nyasuguta

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