Military chief Gen Brice Oligui Nguema won Gabon's presidential election with more than 90% of the vote, according to early results. Critics say new laws helped smooth his path to victory. Many strong opponents found themselves blocked from running against him. His win strengthens his control almost two years after he overthrew President Ali Bongo, ending a family rule that started in 1967.
The 50-year-old Nguema faced seven competitors, including former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie-by-Nze, who served under Bongo. Interior Minister Hermann Immongault announced that Nguema received 575,222 votes for an absolute majority. His closest challenger gained just over 3% support. More than 70% of registered voters participated in what officials called a transparent election. Some voters reported problems with how voting was handled.
Nguema started a seven-year term with a chance to address corruption issues from the previous government. The former Republican Guard commander became popular after ending the Bongo dynasty. Gabon has only 2.5 million people but holds valuable oil and timber resources. About 35% of Gabonese live on less than $2 each day despite these natural riches.
The 50-year-old Nguema faced seven competitors, including former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie-by-Nze, who served under Bongo. Interior Minister Hermann Immongault announced that Nguema received 575,222 votes for an absolute majority. His closest challenger gained just over 3% support. More than 70% of registered voters participated in what officials called a transparent election. Some voters reported problems with how voting was handled.
Nguema started a seven-year term with a chance to address corruption issues from the previous government. The former Republican Guard commander became popular after ending the Bongo dynasty. Gabon has only 2.5 million people but holds valuable oil and timber resources. About 35% of Gabonese live on less than $2 each day despite these natural riches.
