Brice Oligui Nguema Elected President of Gabon with Overwhelming…

Brice Oligui Nguema has been elected President of Gabon with 90.35% of the vote after leading a coup in August 2023. His main opponent, Alain Claude Bilie By Nze, secured only 3.02%. Nguema aims to reform the economy while leveraging a significantly higher voter turnout compared to previous elections.

Brice Oligui Nguema, following his leadership of the coup in August 2023, has been declared the President of Gabon with 90.35% of the votes, as stated by the Central African nation’s interior minister. This election solidifies Nguema’s authority 19 months after overthrowing the Bongo family, who ruled Gabon for over fifty years. Gabon, known for its oil production, is home to approximately 2.5 million residents.

In the eight-candidate election, Alain Claude Bilie By Nze, Nguema’s main rival and the former prime minister under Ali Bongo, obtained only 3.02% of the vote, according to provisional results. Nguema campaigned under the slogan “We Build Together,” emphasizing his commitment to reform and his opposition to the established corrupt political system.

He has pledged to diversify Gabon’s economy, which is heavily dependent on oil, by advancing agriculture, industry, and tourism, in a country where around one-third of the population faces poverty. Voter turnout was reported at 70.40%, significantly higher than the 56.65% recorded in the August 2023 election, during which Bongo was named the winner amid accusations of electoral fraud, leading to the coup shortly after the announcement of results.

In conclusion, Brice Oligui Nguema’s election as President of Gabon with a significant majority demonstrates his consolidation of power following the coup. His promises to reform Gabon’s economy and address poverty indicate a shift from the previous administration. The higher voter turnout reflects increased public engagement, potentially signaling support for Nguema’s vision for change.

Original Source: www.usnews.com