Gabon Sets Presidential Election on March 22 Amid Transition to Democracy

Gabon Sets Presidential Election on March 22 Amid Transition to Democracy

Election Date Announced

Gabon’s transitional leader, Brice Oligui Nguema, announced that the country will hold a presidential election on March 22. This marks a pivotal step in the nation’s transition back to democratic governance.

Nguema’s Rise to Power

Nguema was sworn in as interim leader in September 2023 after a military junta ousted President Ali Bongo. This was the eighth coup in West and Central Africa since 2020. The coup received broad support from the Gabonese population, who were disillusioned by the Bongo family’s management of the nation’s oil wealth, which had left the economy stagnant and a third of the population in poverty.

Key Developments Leading to Elections

The announcement follows a November referendum on a new constitution, a move viewed as crucial to restoring democratic order. The new constitution was part of the junta’s roadmap to transition the country from military rule.

Concerns Over Fairness

Despite the outlined steps toward democracy, concerns have been raised about the fairness of the process. While transitional leaders are generally barred from contesting elections, an exception has been made for Nguema, raising questions about the impartiality of the transition.