A year after seizing control, Gabon’s General Brice Oligui Nguema seems to be looking beyond the coup’s anniversary events, focusing on next year’s elections. Oligui, who ended the Bongo dynasty’s 55-year rule by ousting President Ali Bongo Ondimba, has pledged to return power to civilians in 2025. However, his recent nationwide tour hints at early campaigning for the upcoming presidential race.
“If we’ve achieved certain milestones in 10 months, imagine what could be done in seven years,” Oligui remarked, alluding to a full presidential term. His popularity was evident during Independence Day celebrations, just days before the anniversary of the August 30 coup.
Planned events for Thursday and Friday include fireworks, a banquet, a military parade, and several project inaugurations. Ali Bongo remains confined to his estate, while his wife and eldest son are under detention. The junta’s transitional government has been tight-lipped about the Bongo family’s fate, focusing instead on economic recovery and a return to civilian rule.
Two months after taking office as transitional president, Oligui reassured the international community by setting a two-year timeline for the transfer of power. An “inclusive national dialogue” in April, which saw 680 participants selected by Oligui, led to a thousand proposals. Among these were the introduction of a presidential system without a prime minister and the temporary suspension of the Gabonese Democratic Party.
Daniel Mengara, a former political exile and a recent presidential candidate, criticized these changes as creating “institutions tailored for General Oligui,” likening them to the Bongo regime’s dominance. A new constitution, based on the national dialogue, is expected to be unveiled soon, with a referendum planned before the year’s end.
The transitional government has touted its efforts to improve life in Gabon, highlighting free school tuition, road repairs, and youth employment programs. Yet, challenges remain, including frequent water and electricity outages, high living costs, and supply shortages. Despite its wealth in natural resources, Gabon still imports much of its food and essentials.
Oligui’s ambition of “economic recovery” faces obstacles, including mismanagement in public companies and significant public debt. While Oligui is celebrated as a “savior” and “liberator,” critics warn of an increasingly authoritarian direction. Recent incidents, such as the arrest and questioning of trade unionists and the public shaming of accused youths, have raised concerns about the regime’s approach to discipline and justice.
