Gabon’s junta leader, Gen. Brice Oligui Nguema, has announced his presidential candidacy for the April elections after taking power in a coup that ended the lengthy Bongo dynasty. He faces scrutiny over constitutional reforms perceived to aid his campaign, while promising to improve the country’s situation. Despite support from a regional leader, opposition groups demand he honor commitments to civilian governance.
General Brice Oligui Nguema, the military leader of Gabon, has officially declared his candidacy for the presidency in the upcoming elections scheduled for April 12. Having come to power in a coup earlier this year, which ended over five decades of Bongo family rule, Nguema committed to transitioning power to civilian governance. Critics, however, have raised concerns that recent constitutional changes benefit his presidential ambitions.
During a gathering with supporters in Libreville, amidst heavy rain, Nguema expressed his readiness to transform the fortunes of Gabon, stating, “I am a builder and I need your courage, your strength, to build this country.” His announcement follows a period of speculation regarding his political future and whether he intended to pursue the presidency.
In a prior meeting with military personnel, Nguema acknowledged their desire for him to run, affirming, “I listened to you and, believe me, I understood you.” While rumors circulated about a potential exit from military service, his spokesperson clarified that he would wear civilian attire temporarily for the election but would need to resign from the military permanently if elected.
The coup under Nguema’s leadership has been credited with dismantling 55 years of Bongo dynasty governance. After Ali Bongo’s removal, who had been in power for 14 years, Gabon faces lingering issues such as significant poverty rates, despite its oil wealth. Equatorial Guinea’s President Obiang Nguema Mbasogo has voiced support for Nguema, encouraging Gabonese citizens to unite around him, yet opposition groups urge the military leader to uphold his promise of transferring power to civilians.
General Brice Oligui Nguema’s bid for Gabon’s presidency resonates amidst ongoing debates about the military’s role in governance. His commitment to serving the people’s interests contrasts with fears over his potential consolidation of power. The socio-economic challenges facing Gabon, alongside calls for civilian leadership, create a complex backdrop as the country approaches its elections. Ultimately, the outcome will test Nguema’s promises of reform and the hopes of a nation seeking progress after decades of authoritarian rule.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
