Gabon’s military ruler, General Brice Oligui Nguema, who seized power in a 2023 coup, has declared his candidacy for the upcoming presidential election in April. The announcement comes despite his initial pledge to return power to civilian rule after ousting longtime leader Ali Bongo Ondimba.
Oligui, who turned 50 on Monday, justified his decision by stating it was in response to popular demand. “After careful reflection and in response to your many appeals, I’ve decided to be a candidate in the April 12 presidential election,” he said in a speech in Libreville.
His campaign will focus on rebuilding the nation, tackling infrastructure issues, and addressing frequent power cuts. “I am a builder, and I need your courage, your strength, to build this country,” he said under pouring rain.
A recent change in Gabon’s electoral code, approved in January by the transitional parliament, allows military officers and judges to run for office. Under these rules, Oligui must temporarily step away from his general’s uniform while campaigning, according to his communications team.
“If he’s not elected, he will return to the barracks,” a statement from his team said. However, if he wins, he will officially transition to a civilian leader and not return to the military.
In recent days, Oligui has made public appearances, including at a military rally and a church service where priests released doves in his honour. His team has sought to highlight his connection with ordinary citizens, particularly young voters, by engaging in populist gestures such as giving away free tickets to a local concert in December.
Despite his promises of reform, critics argue that Oligui’s rule has not significantly departed from the Bongo family’s decades-long grip on power. Having served under the Bongo administration for years, some see his leadership as a continuation of the old system rather than a break from it.
Economically, Gabon remains burdened by debt, which has reached 70% of its GDP despite its wealth in oil, timber, and manganese. The International Monetary Fund has raised concerns over the country’s financial stability, with national debt standing at $12 billion in 2023.
Oligui’s government, however, blames these financial woes on what it calls the catastrophic legacy of the Bongo regime.
Presidential candidates have until March 8 to formally submit their candidacies, which includes passing a language test, a medical examination, and an asset declaration. Reports indicate that around 20 potential challengers to Oligui have already withdrawn from the race.
While Oligui positions himself as the leader to guide Gabon into a new era, questions remain over whether his presidency would mark a genuine shift in governance or simply a military-backed continuation of the past.
