Gabonese electorates call for jobs and infrastructure as they vote: Video

The presidential election, which features eight candidates, is widely expected to confirm Brice Oligui Nguema, the current transitional leader and junta chief, as the oil-rich Central African nation's first elected president since the 2023 military coup that ousted former president Ali Bongo Ondimba.

At a polling station in Libreville, voter Jeanne d’Arc Akomuom, 28, told the AFP that she was voting for real change.

“On this April 12th, I came to vote for what is precisely a change. What I expect from the new president... is to promote employment for the youth and try to solve the water and electricity problems that prevail in our city, Libreville,” she said.

Despite Gabon’s considerable oil wealth, the country of 2.3 million people continues to struggle with high unemployment, frequent power outages, water shortages, and a crippling infrastructure gap. Official data shows that only 2,000 of Gabon’s 10,000 kilometers (6,213 miles) of roads are currently usable.

At another polling station, 30-year-old voter Aurele Ossatanga Mouila emphasised the urgency of tackling youth unemployment.

“The new president must really put emphasis on the unemployment issue. He should think about the youth... he really has to find jobs for young Gabonese. It's a really important thing,” Mouila said.

Supporters of Brice Oligui Nguema, the transitional president since the August 2023 coup, appeared confident in his victory.

“It was important for me to come vote. My vote counts to elect a new president, a new Gabon, which is our choice — President Brice Oligui Nguema,” said Eugénie Tchitembo Onanga, 68. “This is cash victory, the choice of God,” he added.

Nguema, a former commander of the Republican Guard, has led the transitional government since removing the Bongo dynasty, which had ruled Gabon for over 55 years.