Gabon’s coup leader Nguema runs for president

General Brice Oligui Nguema, who led Gabon's August 2023 coup that ended the 56-year Bongo family dynasty, is now running for president in the April 12, 2025 election. The 50-year-old general, who initially promised to transfer power to civilians, announced his candidacy last month and is favored to win among eight candidates.

Following the coup, which was largely supported by Gabonese citizens frustrated with the Bongo family's rule, the military junta engaged in a national dialogue with civil society in April 2024, generating numerous proposals for political reform. A significant milestone was reached in November 2024 when voters overwhelmingly approved a new constitution, with 91% voting in favor and 53.5% turnout.

The new constitution implements notable changes, including a single renewable seven-year presidential term limit, designed to prevent dynastic rule similar to that of the Bongo family, during which Gabon became a major African oil producer while widespread poverty persisted.

Nguema's main challenger in the upcoming election is Alain Claude Bilie By Nze, who served as the last prime minister under Ali Bongo. While Nguema's anti-corruption initiatives and constitutional reforms have gained public support, some critics express concerns about the new constitution's presidential candidate eligibility criteria, suggesting it might restrict genuine political competition.

The international community is closely watching this transition, emphasizing the need for transparency and credibility in the electoral process. This election represents a crucial test for Gabon's democratic future, as Nguema attempts to transform his role from junta leader to democratically-elected president.