Gabon awaits outcomes of first presidential election since 2023 coup

Gabon is on edge because the nation awaits the end result of its first presidential election for the reason that military-led coup that ended over 50 years of Bongo household rule.

In keeping with electoral authorities, provisional outcomes from Saturday’s essential vote are anticipated to be introduced later at present.

The election comes practically two years after Common Brice Oligui Nguema seized energy in August 2023, ousting then-President Ali Bongo.

Since assuming management, Gen. Oligui has overseen a constitutional overhaul that now permits him to run for president,a transfer that has drawn criticism from opposition figures who say the brand new legal guidelines favor the military-backed candidate.

Whereas Gen. Oligui’s marketing campaign has promised stability and a transition to a “new republic,” his critics argue that the enjoying area was by no means degree. A number of distinguished opposition figures have been barred from contesting, narrowing the sphere to only eight candidates, together with one lady, Gninga Chaning Zenaba.

Amongst these vying for the presidency are former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie-by-Nze, a key determine within the ousted Bongo administration, and ex-members of the previous ruling Gabonese Democratic Occasion (PDG), Stéphane Germain Iloko and Alain Simplice Boungouères.

Whoever emerges victorious will face the daunting job of tackling entrenched corruption, poor governance, and deep socio-economic inequality, hallmarks of the Bongo period.

Regardless of widespread skepticism, turnout appeared excessive in lots of polling stations throughout Libreville, with voters forming lengthy traces in what many described as a peaceable and orderly course of. Some observers and candidates even praised the conduct of the election.

In a public assertion earlier on Saturday, Gen. Oligui described the vote as “clear” and expressed hope that it could mark the start of a brand new chapter for Gabon.

Nevertheless, candidate Bilie-by-Nze voiced considerations over irregularities at some polling stations, warning that the problems may increase suspicions of electoral fraud.

Gabon, a nation of simply 2.5 million individuals, is wealthy in oil and timber, but greater than one-third of its inhabitants continues to reside under the poverty line.