Gabon Junta Leader Nguema Announces Presidential Candidacy.

General Brice Oligui Nguema, the military leader of Gabon, has declared his intention to run for president in the April 12 election. Following a coup that ended the Bongo family’s rule, his candidacy raises concerns due to recent constitutional changes perceived as favorable to him. Nguema calls for national unity and seeks to transform the nation, while facing pressure to honor his commitment to civilian leadership.

General Brice Oligui Nguema, the military leader of Gabon, has officially announced his candidacy for the presidency in the upcoming election scheduled for April 12, 2024. Nguema came to power in a coup in 2023 that ended the prolonged reign of the Bongo family. He has previously indicated a commitment to returning governance to civilians, yet recent changes to the constitution and electoral laws have raised concerns of bias favoring his bid.

During a gathering in Libreville, Nguema stated, “I am a builder and I need your courage, your strength, to build this country,” emphasizing his vision for the transformation of Gabon. His decision comes after considerable speculation regarding his ambitions for the presidency. Previously, he had addressed military personnel, acknowledging their hopes for him to participate in the electoral process.

Although there were rumors that Nguema had exited military service, his spokesman refuted this claim. A Facebook page associated with Nguema clarified that he is required to temporarily relinquish his military uniform for the election, but should he win, he would resign from the military entirely. The Nguema-led junta is credited with ending the 55-year Bongo dynasty, which was characterized by the rule of both Ali Bongo and his father, Omar Bongo.

Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, the president of neighboring Equatorial Guinea, has publicly endorsed Nguema, urging the Gabonese populace to support him for a brighter future. However, certain opposition and civil society groups within Gabon are calling for Nguema to adhere to his promises and facilitate a transition to civilian leadership following the elections. Despite the country’s significant oil resources and rich forests, approximately one-third of Gabon’s 2.4 million citizens live below the poverty line, according to United Nations statistics.

The announcement of General Brice Oligui Nguema’s presidential candidacy marks a significant moment in Gabon’s political landscape following the coup that ousted the long-standing Bongo dynasty. While he seeks to emphasize his commitment to transforming the nation, challenges remain regarding the legitimacy of his bid and the call for a return to civilian governance. As the election approaches, public and international scrutiny will likely intensify.

Original Source: www.bbc.com