Gabon’s Coup Leader Cleared to Compete in Upcoming Presidential Election

Gabon’s Constitutional Court has approved eight presidential candidates for the April 12 election, including coup leader Brice Oligui Nguema, who is now eligible due to a constitutional amendment. Other significant contenders are former Prime Minister Alain Claude Billie By Nze and candidate Gninga Chaning Zenaba, the only woman in the race.

In Gabon, the Constitutional Court has validated eight candidates for the presidential election scheduled on April 12. Among these candidates is Brice Oligui Nguema, who has been leading the transitional government since the military coup in 2023. Typically, leaders of transitional governments face restrictions regarding their eligibility to contest in elections. However, following the passage of a new constitution in November, Nguema has been exempted from such limitations, raising concerns about the junta’s objectives.

Brice Oligui Nguema notably terminated the prolonged rule of the Bongo family and is anticipated to face significant competition from former Prime Minister Alain Claude Billie By Nze, who is seen as his principal rival. Additionally, the electoral race includes Gninga Chaning Zenaba, the sole female candidate, and Stephane Germain Iloko Boussengui, a former member of the Bongo-led Gabonese Democratic Party.

The presidential election in Gabon, featuring Brice Oligui Nguema as a key candidate, reflects critical political dynamics following a military coup. The new constitution allowing Nguema to compete raises questions regarding the junta’s true intentions. With prominent candidates such as Alain Claude Billie By Nze and Gninga Chaning Zenaba, the upcoming election will be vital for Gabon’s future governance.

Original Source: www.africa.com