Overview

• Gabon will hold a presidential election this Saturday, marking a critical step in transitioning from 19 months of military rule following the 2023 coup that ended 55 years of Bongo family dominance.
• Brice Oligui Nguema, the coup leader and current frontrunner, campaigns on promises of reform, leveraging his role in ending the Bongo dynasty and widespread public support.
• Seven other candidates, including former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie By Nze, are contesting the election, though Nguema's incumbency and popularity give him a significant advantage.
• The election comes as Gabon faces severe economic challenges, including high debt projected to reach 80% of GDP, declining oil revenues, and crumbling infrastructure.
• The outcome will be closely watched by international observers and investors, as it represents a test of Gabon's commitment to democratic governance and economic recovery.