Gabon’s junta chief Brice Oligui Nguema has won the country’s presidential election with over 90% of the vote, according to provisional results released on Sunday. The turnout was 70.4%, and no other candidate received more than 3%. Oligui had promised to return Gabon to democratic rule after a 2023 coup ended five decades of corruption-plagued rule by the Bongo family.
The election marked the first time voters have cast ballots since the coup, with many flocking to polls to exercise their right. The streets in the capital city Libreville were calm on Sunday, a stark contrast to previous elections that were marred by tensions and unrest.
Critics argue that Oligui has failed to address the country’s deep-seated problems, including crumbling infrastructure, widespread poverty, and a crushing debt mountain. However, Oligui has sought to shed his military strongman image and present himself as a leader who can bring about change.
International observers reported no major incidents at polling stations across the country. The election was marked by a high voter turnout, with 920,000 citizens casting their ballots at over 3,000 polling stations. Oligui’s victory is seen as a significant step towards returning Gabon to democratic rule, but critics will likely be watching closely to see how he addresses the country’s pressing issues.
Source: https://www.france24.com/en/africa/20250413-gabon-junta-chief-wins-presidency-by-landslide-provisional-results-show-bongo