Gabon’s transitional government has announced that presidential elections will be held on April 12, marking a significant step toward restoring civilian rule following a coup that ended the Bongo family’s long reign. Government spokesman Seraphin Akure Davain confirmed after a cabinet meeting that voting will take place from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm, in accordance with current laws.
Gabon, an oil-rich country in Central Africa, had been under the Bongo family’s control for 55 years. Following a November referendum, a new constitution was adopted, which introduced a limit of two seven-year presidential terms, abolished the role of prime minister, and prohibited dynastic succession.
In addition, a new law passed on Monday allows military officials to run in elections, subject to certain conditions. Transitional President General Brice Oligui Nguema, who assumed power after the August 2023 coup, has expressed clear intentions to remain in office.
Ali Bongo, who ruled for 14 years, was ousted by the military shortly after being declared the winner of a presidential election widely contested by the military and opposition for alleged fraud. He succeeded his father, Omar Bongo, who had ruled for more than 41 years.
Both the opposition and the coup leaders accused Ali Bongo’s government of pervasive corruption and poor governance.
