Gabon is set to hold a crucial presidential election on Saturday, the first since a military coup in 2023 ended the Bongo family’s 56-year grip on power. The country’s new leaders are hoping the vote will legitimize their authority and solidify a new political era.
Brice Oligui Nguema, who led the coup last August, is widely expected to win. Initially pledging a return to civilian rule, Nguema took charge of the transitional government and recently confirmed his candidacy for the election.
His main opponent is Alain Claude Bilie By Nze, a former prime minister under Ali Bongo, who has launched his own political movement, “Together for Gabon,” in an effort to distance himself from the previous regime.
Nguema remains popular for his role in toppling Ali Bongo’s widely criticized rule. Analysts note, however, that he also benefits from a strong grip on state institutions, including the senate, national assembly, and constitutional court, which are dominated by his allies.
Speaking about his vision for the country, Nguema has called for Gabon to “rise from the ashes” and pledged to rebuild the nation. His message resonates with many citizens in a country where a wealthy elite thrived on oil revenues while much of the population endured poverty.
The memory of the 2016 election, when Bongo’s contested victory sparked violent protests and the burning of the parliament building, remains fresh. In 2023, Nguema and his fellow officers swiftly ousted Bongo minutes after he announced another disputed win.
Since the coup, there have been signs of progress. The World Bank reports that Gabon’s economy grew by 2.9 percent in 2024, up from 2.4 percent the previous year, buoyed by infrastructure investments and higher production of oil, manganese, and timber.
Nonetheless, the economy remains heavily dependent on declining oil output. Like his predecessor, Nguema has pledged to diversify Gabon’s economy by promoting agriculture, industry, and tourism.
“We hope the election results will usher in more transparent and accountable governance,” said civil society activist Pépecy Ogouliguendé. “Citizens want better living conditions, especially in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.”
Polling stations will open at 8 a.m. (0700 GMT) and close at 6 p.m., with results expected later in the evening.