**Gabon: Towards a militarization of the electoral process?**
In Gabon, the political landscape is being redrawn as the new electoral code opens the doors of the ballot boxes to the military. This initiative, welcomed by the supporters of the transitional president, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, nevertheless raises profound questions about the future of democracy in the country. Paradoxically, while some see this development as a regeneration of the political system, others perceive it as a threat to the archetypal democratic principles that the African continent is striving to build.
The decision to include the military in the electoral process is a first in Central Africa, and this change could echo similar movements observed in neighboring countries. At the heart of this debate is the question of the militarization of politics. Indeed, this phenomenon is not isolated, and examples of military interference in political choices are legion on the continent, from Mali to the Central African Republic. According to recent studies, the military presence in civil affairs has often been correlated with a reduction in civil liberties and an increase in political tension.
A look at the overall context is essential. Looking at figures from the African Center for Policy Management, we see that increased militarization of politics leads, on average, to a 15% decrease in voter turnout. Concerns about citizens’ trust in their institutions often manifest themselves when they feel that the military would exert direct influence on the political process.
As for Oligui Nguema’s supporters who recently called for his candidacy for the presidency, this shows popular support that could hide a lesser respect for political opposition. Indeed, an electoral field dominated by military figures could create a structural imbalance, whether due to coercion or intimidation. This phenomenon is frequently studied in studies on democratic transitions, where military involvement in political life has often led to a double discourse: a promise to modernize a country through strict governance, and a slide towards authoritarianism.
In parallel, the situation in Senegal suggests that a similar dynamic is unfolding with regard to the withdrawal of the French military presence. This military is not only a symbol of the colonial legacy, but also an actor who has historically shaped local legislation and political relations. The decision to withdraw, announced for the summer of 2025, could be interpreted as an opportunity for Senegal to consolidate its independence, but also as a real concern hanging over regional stability, while conflicts loom on the horizon.
It is also important to mention the growing role that technological innovation plays in these political changes. On the occasion of the CES in Las Vegas, where the African pavilion, organized by Lamia Aamou, highlighted the continent’s progress in the technological sector, it is interesting to reflect on the potential that these innovations could have on democracy in Africa. New technologies could strengthen electoral transparency, encouraging governments to adapt to increasingly demanding citizenships with regard to good governance.
The question that arises is therefore the following: will the developments underway in countries such as Gabon and Senegal bring an enlightened political future, where technological innovation accompanies true democratization? Or will the militarization of electoral processes contribute to exacerbating tensions and further weakening already weakened political systems? Time will tell, but it is imperative that citizens, supported by a vigilant international community, demand oversight and accountability at these pivotal times in their nations’ political history.