Gabon's new strongman General Brice Oligui Nguema (R) salutes as he is inaugurated as Gabon's interim President, in Libreville on September 4, 2023. - Gabon's coup leader vowed after being sworn in as interim president on September 4, 2023 to restore civilian rule through "free, transparent and credible elections" after a transition and amnesty prisoners of conscience. (Photo by - / AFP) / ALTERNATE CROP - ALTERNATE CROP
Libreville, March 3, 2025 — Gabon’s transitional leader, General Brice Oligui Nguema, has officially declared his candidacy for the country’s presidential election scheduled for April 12, 2025.
Nguema, who led the military coup that ousted the Bongo family’s 55-year rule in August 2023, had initially pledged to return the country to civilian governance. However, a revised electoral code passed in January now permits military personnel and magistrates to contest elections.
In a speech delivered in the capital, Libreville, the 50-year-old general said, “After careful reflection and in response to your many appeals, I’ve decided to be a candidate in the April 12 presidential election.”
Nguema outlined his vision for a “new Gabon rising from the ashes,” pledging to address the nation’s pressing infrastructure challenges. His campaign has focused on positioning himself as a leader in touch with the people, particularly the youth, nearly half of whom are under 20.
Under the country’s regulations, Nguema will be required to step down from his military role while contesting the election. According to his official communications channel, Infos CTRI Officiel, “At the end of the election period, he will again wear his military uniform while awaiting the results. If elected, he will not return to the military. If not elected, he will return to the barracks.”
In the lead-up to his announcement, Nguema made several public appearances, including attending a military rally and a church service where doves were released in his honor. He has also made strategic campaign moves, such as distributing free concert tickets to a popular local artist to engage young voters.
The deadline for candidates to confirm their participation in the election is March 8, with a process that includes a language test, medical examination, and asset declaration. While several potential contenders have withdrawn, Nguema is expected to face competition from other candidates.
A key issue in the upcoming election will be Gabon’s struggling economy, with national debt standing at approximately $12 billion—70% of the country’s GDP. Nguema has vowed to tackle the country’s chronic power shortages and economic instability if elected.
