Nearly two years after leading a coup that ended more than five decades of Bongo family rule, Gabon’s military leader, Brice Oligui Nguema, has announced his candidacy in the country’s April presidential election.
Nguema, who ousted President Ali Bongo in August 2023, had pledged to return power to civilians following a transitional period.
In January, Gabon’s transitional Parliament approved a new electoral code allowing members of the military and magistrates to run for office.
Nguema made the announcement during a speech in the capital, Libreville. The 50-year-old described his vision for the country as a “Gabon rising from the ashes” and called on supporters to back his candidacy.
To enter the race, the former head of the presidential guard must step down from his current role, at least temporarily, according to the official Facebook page of Gabon’s ruling transition committee, Infos CTRI officiel.
“If he is not elected, he will return to the barracks,” the page stated.
Gabon’s elections are scheduled for April 12.