Gabon is currently immersed in a period of political transition following the coup d’état of August 30, 2023. A new strongman, General Oligui Nguema, is at the head of the country and is wondering about his possible participation in the next election presidential. However, the transitional Prime Minister, Raymond Ndong Sima, emphasizes that the decision of who can run for president cannot be made by a single person.
In an interview with RFI, Ndong Sima recalls that the transition should last two years to allow an inclusive process. He explains that it is necessary to consult political actors and civil society, organize a debate, and draft a new constitution before fair and transparent elections can be held. He thus rejects the idea of a one-year transition proposed by the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS).
Regarding the question of General Oligui Nguema’s participation in the presidential election, Ndong Sima affirms that he is basing himself on what was indicated to him in the Transition Charter. He recalls that he chose not to run in the election to concentrate on implementing the necessary reforms. He stresses that the final decision should be made during a national debate which will allow the maximum number of voices and perspectives to be included.
When asked if General Nguema will have a say in the drafting of the future constitution, Ndong Sima replies that the question should be asked directly to the general. He insists that the process provides for a national debate, a national conference, and a referendum for the adoption of the constitution, which excludes the possibility of a single person deciding its content.
As for whether Ndong Sima will be able to remain prime minister if General Nguema runs and he cannot, the prime minister says it remains to be seen. He specifies that the general has not yet announced his candidacy and that the decision on who can stand for election will be made during the national debate.
Finally, Ndong Sima mentions the fight against bad governance as one of his priorities. He mentions the arrest of Noureddin Bongo, son of Ali Bongo, on charges of high treason and embezzlement of public funds. He emphasizes that he does not have access to the elements of the investigation, but that there was the discovery of large sums of money and products presumed to be drugs. He indicates that it is the investigators who will have to provide the details of this case.
In conclusion, the question of the participation of General Oligui Nguema in the next presidential election in Gabon remains unresolved. Transitional Prime Minister Raymond Ndong Sima stresses the importance of a national debate to decide who can be a candidate in the election. The duration of the transition and the fight against bad governance are also major subjects addressed by Ndong Sima in this interview.