Gabon citizens waited on Sunday for results after voting in the presidential election. The military leaders who took power in 2023 hope the vote will make their rule look legitimate. Interim president General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema seems likely to win by a large margin against seven opponents. He had representatives at most polling stations, showing his campaign reach across the country.
Local observers said almost 95 percent of voting stations operated properly. This marks the first election since military leaders ended the 50-year political dynasty that previously ruled Gabon. About 920,000 voters registered for this important election in a nation where many live in poverty despite oil wealth. After voting, Oligui Nguema said he felt proud of citizens trying to start a new chapter for the country.
His main challenger, former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze, worried that unused voting cards might lead to cheating. Many voters told reporters they think the military has failed to keep its promises since taking control. Antoine Nkili, an unemployed law graduate, complained that the military promised reforms but instead just enriched itself.
Local observers said almost 95 percent of voting stations operated properly. This marks the first election since military leaders ended the 50-year political dynasty that previously ruled Gabon. About 920,000 voters registered for this important election in a nation where many live in poverty despite oil wealth. After voting, Oligui Nguema said he felt proud of citizens trying to start a new chapter for the country.
His main challenger, former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze, worried that unused voting cards might lead to cheating. Many voters told reporters they think the military has failed to keep its promises since taking control. Antoine Nkili, an unemployed law graduate, complained that the military promised reforms but instead just enriched itself.
