Gabon’s transitional government announced on Thursday that presidential elections will take place on April 12, marking a significant step toward restoring civilian governance after a coup ended the Bongo family’s 55-year reign.
“Voting will begin at 7:00 am and close at 6:00 pm, in accordance with the current laws,” government spokesman Seraphin Akure Davain stated following a cabinet meeting.
The announcement follows the adoption of a new constitution in a November referendum, which introduced critical reforms, including a two-term limit of seven years each for the presidency, the elimination of the prime minister’s position, and a ban on dynastic transfers of power.
Earlier this week, a new law was enacted allowing military officials to run for office under specific conditions, paving the way for potential military involvement in the elections.
Transitional President General Brice Oligui Nguema, who assumed power after the August 2023 coup, has hinted at his desire to remain in leadership.
The coup ousted Ali Bongo, who had ruled Gabon for 14 years, shortly after he was declared the winner of a contested presidential election that the military and opposition alleged was marred by fraud. Ali Bongo had succeeded his father, Omar Bongo, who governed the oil-rich Central African nation for over 41 years.
Both the opposition and military coup leaders accused Ali Bongo’s administration of corruption and mismanagement, setting the stage for the sweeping changes now underway.