Gabon coup leader Brice Nguema cleared for presidential election

By Daisy Okiring

Gabon’s Constitutional Court has approved eight candidates to run in the April 12 presidential election, including interim President Brice Oligui Nguema, who seized power in a 2023 military coup.

The court’s decision follows the adoption of a new constitution in November, which allows transitional leaders to contest elections. This shift has sparked concerns among opposition groups and political analysts, who fear it could entrench military influence in the country’s politics.

Nguema’s rise and the road to elections

Nguema, 50, led the coup that ousted long-time President Ali Bongo, ending the Bongo family’s decades-long rule over the oil-rich Central African nation. Since taking power, his military-led government has promised to restore democracy, insisting that the constitutional changes are a necessary step in the transition process.

Key challengers in the race

Among those challenging Nguema is Alain Claude Billie By Nze, 57, the last minister to serve under Bongo, who is now running as an independent candidate.

Also in the race is Stéphane Germain Iloko Boussengui, a former member of the ruling Gabonese Democratic Party (PDG) who now leads the newly formed Large Rainbow Gathering political movement.

Other approved candidates include Joseph Lapensee Essigone, a tax official, and Gninga Chaning Zenaba, an entrepreneur and the only female contender in the race.

A test for Gabon’s transition to democracy

The upcoming election is seen as a critical test for Gabon’s political transition and the military government’s pledge to uphold democracy. With concerns over the fairness of the electoral process, all eyes will be on whether the vote will mark a genuine shift toward civilian rule or reinforce the military’s grip on power.Gabon clears coup leader Brice Oligui Nguema and Seven for presidential election