Gabon Election Results Criticized by Former Prime Minister

Former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze criticized the recent Gabonese presidential election as neither free nor transparent. He lost to Oligui Nguema, who received 90.35% of the vote in the first election following a military coup. Bilie-By-Nze expressed concerns over the use of state resources in the electoral process and indicated his intention to remain politically active.

In Gabon, the recent presidential election has drawn sharp criticism from former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze, who lost to Oligui Nguema. Bilie-By-Nze described the election as lacking transparency and fairness, asserting that it was not a free election. He expressed grave concerns regarding the misuse of state resources during the electoral process, stating, “Never, since entering politics, have I witnessed such a hijacking of all State resources.”
Oligui Nguema achieved a remarkable victory, securing 90.35% of the votes, while Bilie-By-Nze obtained merely 3%. This election was significant as it marked the first after the military coup of 2023, a pivotal moment for Gabon’s approximately 2.3 million residents, a third of whom endure poverty despite the nation’s considerable oil reserves.
The coup leader, Nguema, had deposed President Ali Bongo Ondimba, thereby concluding a 55-year political legacy initiated by Omar Bongo, the former president. Nguema aspires to strengthen his authority over the next seven years. In a note of goodwill, Bilie-By-Nze wished the new administration success and indicated his intention to continue his political career.

The recent Gabonese presidential election has been mired in controversy, particularly due to allegations of unfair practices voiced by former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze. The election, marking a significant transition following the military coup, has set the stage for Oligui Nguema’s potential consolidation of power while raising questions about governance and democracy in Gabon.

Original Source: www.wral.com