...gabon Set to Mark a New Chapter: One Year After Military Takeover

As Gabon heads to the polls today, citizens are poised to make a historic decision in the first presidential election since the military coup that ousted former President Ali Bongo 19 months ago. This election, laden with anticipation, is notable for the absence of any Bongo family member on the ballot for the first time in decades.

A Changing Political Landscape

At the heart of this significant electoral moment is General Brice Oligui Nguema, the coup leader who has now maneuvered to become a candidate himself. Following the takeover, Nguema made controversial changes to the constitution, paving his way to run in the presidential race. As voters reflect on their choices, eight candidates compete for the top position, including a notable presence of only one woman in the race—Gninga Chaning Zenaba.

Other prominent contenders for the presidency include former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie-by-Nze, who served under the Bongo regime, alongside two influential figures from the former ruling Gabonese Democratic Party (PDG): Stéphane Germain Iloko and Alain Simplice Boungouères.

A Nation at the Crossroads

With close to one million Gabonese nationals, along with citizens living in the diaspora, preparing to cast their ballots, the election is a focal point for a nation of 2.5 million people rich in oil and timber resources—but still grappling with poverty, as around 35% of its population lives below the $2 (£1.50) daily threshold.

Over the past two weeks, the campaign trail largely saw candidates prioritize outreach to voters in rural areas, with campaigns in the capital city, Libreville, being notably restrained. Nonetheless, the streets of Libreville are awash with campaign materials for Oligui Nguema, whose presence looms large while his opponents struggle for visibility in a media landscape that appears to favor the junta leader.

“I will vote for the builder Oligui Nguema,” declared Landry Obame-Mezui, a local taxi driver who appreciates the junta leader's practical approach of prioritizing "action before speeches."

Criticism and Controversy

However, Oligui Nguema's transitional leadership has not escaped scrutiny. Critics contend he has manipulated the electoral process to favor his own candidacy—promising a return to civilian rule while introducing measures that raise questions about fairness. An upper age limit set for candidates has rendered Albert Ondo Ossa, a leading opposition figure, ineligible to run, further stoking concerns about the integrity of the electoral system.

Bilie-by-Nze, who identifies as a key challenger, has not held back in his criticism of the ongoing military influence in governance. “Go back to the barracks,” he proclaimed, emphasizing a need for genuine reform and distancing himself from his connections to the previous administration.

Voter Sentiment: A Desire for Change

As the Gabonese people enter this crucial electoral period, their sentiments echo a collective desire for an end to years of maladministration characterized by embezzlement, cronyism, and rampant unemployment. Voter Noel Kounta articulates this hope succinctly: “Our expectation is to have a new Gabon that is well-governed, well-managed, where there is social justice, equity, and equal chances.”

For many, like 30-year-old pharmacist Shonnys Akoulatele, the need for job creation is paramount. “The unemployment rate is so high,” she expressed, emphasizing the critical importance for leaders to have empathy towards the job crisis, especially within the private sector.

As polling stations prepare to close at 18:00 local time (17:00 GMT), all eyes are now on Gabon’s electoral process—a potential turning point for a nation eager for progress and reform. The election results are expected to begin unfolding on Sunday, but the counting could stretch into the following week, adding an air of suspense to this pivotal moment in Gabonese history.