** Presidential elections in Gabon: a turning point with multiple implications **
Gabon recently marked a decisive turning point with the 2025 presidential election. Brice Oligui Nguema, former military chief, was elected with 90.35 % of the votes cast, according to the provisional results announced by the Minister of the Interior on April 13. This election, which comes after a coup in August 2023 against President Ali Bongo, raises many questions about the country’s political future, the legitimacy of the electoral process and the expectations of the Gabonese towards their new president.
** A complex context **
To understand the scope of this ballot, it is essential to replace these events in their historical context. Gabon has experienced several decades of authoritarian regimes, often during the reign of the Bongo family. The coup d’etat of August 2023, although marked by promises to restore democracy, also left deep scars within Gabonese society. Brice Oligui Nguema, after taking power, had initially promised to return power to civilians, before declaring himself a presidential candidate.
This development raises questions about the very nature of the political transition process. If the elections were organized, the magnitude of the results in favor of Oligui Nguema question: that these figures translate on the confidence of voters towards the institutions, and especially to the one who made the choice to present themselves after a coup?
** A ballot under close surveillance **
The participation rate of 70.4 % testifies to a certain interest in the population for the policy, however, the conditions must be considered in which this ballot took place. How did the electorate perceive the conditions for the organization of the elections? Were the guarantees of transparency and equity sufficient? These questions are crucial to assess the legitimacy of the new president and the possibility of a serious return to a democratic regime.
It is also important to note the very low performance of its main competitor, Alain-Claude Bilie by Nze, with only 3.02 % of the vote. This result could indicate a marked political polarization and a landscape partially based on particularly uneven support in terms of resources and media visibility.
** Implications for the future of Gabon **
With a seven -year mandate renewable once, the question arises: what direction will Brice Oligui Nguema take? His military experience and his personal career can greatly influence his approach to governance. Is it able to meet the expectations of Gabonese concerning the implementation of human rights reforms, freedom of expression and natural resources management? Gabon, rich in resources, must look at issues such as transparency in the management of public funds and the fight against corruption.
The expectations of citizens are also oriented towards the need to build solid and resilient institutions. In a country where the population aspires to see their voice heard, how will Oligui Nguema manage to establish a constructive dialogue with the various socio-political actors? This involves national reconciliation which takes into account all stakeholders in the country.
** To an uncertain but possible future **
The path that opens after these elections is strewn with pitfalls. The promises to return to a constitutional regime and respect for civil rights require a concrete and visible implementation. The international community, as well as Gabonese civil society groups, have a role to play in encouraging a governance framework that favors dialogue and taking into account the concerns of citizens.
Ultimately, the election of Brice Oligui Nguema could be perceived as an opportunity to straighten the bar, but this remains conditioned by prudent political choices and a manifest will to build an inclusive democracy. Gabon is at a crossroads in its history, and each of the actors involved has a role to play to shape the future of the country in a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect.