John AdoyiGabon’s nearly two-year military government officially came to an end on Saturday as General Brice Oligui Nguema, the former junta leader who seized power in a 2023 coup, was inaugurated as the country’s fourth president.
Oligui Nguema, who toppled his cousin, Ali Bongo’s government, ending the Bongo family’s 56-year dynasty, transitioned into civilian leadership after winning a landslide victory in the April 12 presidential election.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelHe secured 95% of the vote, defeating seven other candidates, including outgoing Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze, who finished a distant third with just 3%.
The swearing-in ceremony, attended by several African leaders, including The Gambia’s Adama Barrow, Equatorial Guinea’s Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, and Senegal’s Bassirou Diomaye Faye, marked a pivotal moment in Gabon’s political transition.
“Today we celebrate democratic renewal,” an elated Oligui Nguema declared. “I promise to serve, protect, and unite all Gabonese—that is the meaning of my oath.”
READ ALSO: Gabon Coup: End Of Bongo Era As Junta Leaders Announce Transitional President
Addressing Gabon’s 2.3 million citizens, the new president vowed to create “a different Gabon, in line with our aspirations.” He pledged to diversify the economy by transforming raw materials and attracting foreign investment. Oligui Nguema has previously committed to rebuilding the nation and rooting out corruption, a key grievance under the Bongo regime.
Under the new constitution approved in a November 2023 referendum, Oligui Nguema will serve a seven-year term, renewable once. Observers reported that the election was largely peaceful, though some opposition groups raised concerns over transparency.
As Gabon turns a new page in the country’s history, the international community watches closely to see whether Oligui Nguema will deliver on his government of Unity, economic reform and democratic leadership.
