In a crucial move to restore civilian governance following a revolution that ended the Bongo dynasty’s decades-long dominance, Gabon’s transitional administration said Thursday that presidential elections will take place on April 12.
Following a cabinet meeting, government spokesperson Seraphin Akure Davain declared, “In accordance with current laws, voting will begin at 7:00 am and end at 6:00 pm.” In a referendum held in November, the oil-rich central African nation, which had been ruled by the Bongo family for 55 years, approved a new constitution.
It allowed for no prime minister, no dynastic transfer of power, and a limit of two seven-year presidential terms.
A new legislation that went into effect on Monday permitted military officials to run in elections under specific restrictions.
Following a coup in August 2023, Transitional President General Brice Oligui Nguema quickly assumed leadership and has made no secret of his desire to stay in office.
Ali Bongo ruled for 14 years before being deposed shortly after winning a presidential election that the opposition and military deemed to be rigged. After his father Omar, who had reigned for over 41 years, passed away, he assumed government.
Ali Bongo’s government was charged by the opposition and the organizers of the military coup with extensive corruption and bad governance.
– Deeprows News
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