Gabon’s military leaders have revealed plans to conduct a general election in August 2025. The announcement comes after General Brice Oligui Nguema seized power from his cousin, Ali Bongo, in August, citing the need to address a “severe institutional” crisis in the central African nation, which had been under the rule of the Bongo family for 55 years.
While members of the interim government are ineligible to run in the upcoming elections, the transitional charter does not explicitly prohibit Gen Oligui Nguema from seeking candidacy. Whether he intends to run remains uncertain.
The junta declared on Monday that the proposed election timetable is subject to public approval, with town hall-style meetings scheduled for April 2025. Additionally, a new constitution is set to be presented in October of that year, followed by a referendum for adoption by the end of 2025.
Gabon’s transitional leaders are working to rebuild trust in the government, taking actions such as arresting individuals accused of embezzlement, forgery, and other crimes. Notably, First Lady Sylvia Bongo and her son Noureddin Bongo Valentin face corruption charges. However, analysts suggest that despite these measures, the extended Bongo family and its allies still maintain influential positions within the government. The upcoming election and constitutional changes aim to shape the country’s political landscape and transition to civilian governance.
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