General Brice Oligui Nguema, Gabon’s transition leader, has announced his candidacy for the April 2025 presidential election. Following approval from the Ministry of National Defense, he will run as an independent candidate under “The Builders’ Movement,” inviting support from various sectors. This election marks the first since the military coup that ousted President Ali Bongo Ondimba in August 2023.
General Brice Oligui Nguema, the leader of Gabon’s transition government following the 2023 coup, has officially declared his candidacy for the upcoming presidential election scheduled for April 2025. He visited the Ministry of the Interior to complete his registration process, confirming his transition from military leader to aspiring politician.
In a statement to the press, Nguema revealed that his request to participate in politics had been approved by the Ministry of National Defense. He expressed his satisfaction, stating, “I am happy today to inform you that the Ministry of National Defense has favourably responded to my availability request. This means that since February 27, 2025, I am eligible to engage in politics and even occupy the supreme position,” as reported by AFP.
Although there were discussions regarding the formation of a political party, Nguema has decided to run as an independent candidate. He introduced his political initiative called “The Builders’ Movement,” which seeks collaboration from various sectors, including political parties and youth organizations, to garner support for his vision.
He noted, “There is no reason to create a party. Time does not allow us to do so. But like the others, I will go as an independent,” emphasizing the importance of collaboration. Nguema invited groups to unite under his platform to aid in the nation’s development and progress.
His announcement of candidacy is pivotal in Gabon’s transition to civilian governance, marking the first presidential election since the military ousted former President Ali Bongo Ondimba in August 2023, citing issues of election fraud and governance inadequacies.
In conclusion, General Brice Oligui Nguema’s candidacy for Gabon’s presidential election is a consequential step in the country’s political evolution. With the backing of the Ministry of National Defense, his independent campaign and collaborative initiative, “The Builders’ Movement,” aim to unify various segments of society for national development. This election, being the first post-coup, represents a critical moment in Gabon’s return to civilian rule.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
