In Gabon, the political scene is preparing for the presidential, legislative and local elections which will take place on August 26. However, one application stands out from the ordinary and arouses curiosity: that of a 61-year-old Frenchman, born in France and naturalized Gabonese three years ago. Christian Hebert is running in the second seat of Minvoul, a town located in northern Gabon, and thus becomes the first white man to run for deputy in the country.
This atypical candidacy was made possible thanks to Hebert’s love for Minvoul, a passion born from his meeting 14 years ago with his wife, originally from this region. Driven by a deep desire to improve the lives of residents, Hebert is determined to electrify certain villages, a priority for him. “When I go there, unfortunately, in the evening, I light myself with a flashlight or kerosene lamp,” he explains.
A telecoms engineer by training, Christian Hebert, already nicknamed the “white MP”, faces a major competitor, the current Minister of the Fight against Corruption. Despite some negative reactions, he remains hopeful and presents himself above all as a technocrat, wishing to develop projects for the well-being of the community.
This extraordinary candidacy attracts attention and sparks various debates within Gabonese society. Some welcome diversity and multiculturalism, emphasizing the importance of political representativeness. Others question the motivations of a white man to get involved in the politics of an African country, highlighting the complex realities of Gabon’s political and social context.
Regardless, Christian Hebert’s candidacy opened the debate and brought a new perspective to the Gabonese political scene. It highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion within political institutions, while provoking reflections on the challenges and opportunities linked to the participation of individuals from different backgrounds.
The upcoming election will therefore be a key moment for Christian Hebert, who hopes to be able to realize his commitment to the population of Minvoul and give a voice to those who are often marginalized in the traditional political landscape. His candidacy marks a turning point in the political history of Gabon and reminds us that politics is a space open to all, regardless of skin color or ethnic origin.