Gabon’s Military ruler joins presidential race
Gabon’s military leader, General Brice Oligui Nguema, has announced he will run for president in the election set for April 12.
Mr Nguema took power in August 2023 after leading a coup that removed President Ali Bongo from office.
Mr Bongo had ruled for 14 years, following in the footsteps of his father, Omar Bongo, who led the country for 41 years. The coup ended the Bongo family’s 55-year hold on power.
On March 3, Mr Nguema told his supporters in the capital, Libreville, that he had thought carefully before deciding to contest.
According to local reports, the president also attributed his decision to calls for his contest by many people.
He also described himself as a "builder" and called on citizens to support him in shaping Gabon’s future.
His decision comes after a recent change in the country’s constitution, which now allows him to stand in the election.
