Gabon is heading toward a significant political milestone as it prepares for its presidential elections on April 12, 2025. The country, which has been under military rule since a coup in August 2023, is now poised to hold elections that could mark the end of this authoritarian period and pave the way for a return to civilian governance.
The August 2023 coup ousted President Ali Bongo Ondimba, who had been in power for over 14 years, following the sudden death of his father, Omar Bongo, who ruled the country for more than four decades. The coup was sparked by a mixture of public dissatisfaction with the Bongo family’s long-standing rule, widespread corruption, and economic inequalities. The new military junta, led by General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, has promised a transition to civilian rule, making the upcoming elections a crucial moment for the country’s future.
Despite the promise of a return to democracy, the situation remains tense. The military junta has been under pressure from both international actors and domestic groups to restore constitutional order and hold free and fair elections. Regional organizations, including the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), have called for a quick and transparent transition to civilian rule. Gabonese citizens, on the other hand, remain divided. While some have welcomed the change, hoping it could lead to reforms and better governance, others are wary of the military’s continued influence in the political process.
The April 12 elections will be closely monitored by both national and international observers. One of the central issues facing the elections is whether the military will allow for a truly competitive race or manipulate the process to ensure a favorable outcome for themselves or their allies. Concerns about electoral transparency, voter intimidation, and the fairness of the vote remain high. Many opposition groups have voiced skepticism over the junta’s commitment to a genuine return to democracy, with some calling for reforms to the electoral process and greater independence for electoral bodies.
For Gabon, these elections represent a pivotal opportunity to shed the long shadow of military rule and restore civilian authority. However, much remains uncertain, and the coming months will be critical in determining whether Gabon can navigate this transition peacefully and establish a more democratic and accountable government. The outcome of the polls will have significant implications for the country’s political trajectory and its relationships with regional and international powers.