For the first time in decades, Gabonese citizens will choose their next president without a Bongo family member on the ballot.
Following a coup 19 months ago that deposed former President Ali Bongo, General Brice Oligui Nguema, the coup leader, has modified the constitution to allow him to run in the upcoming election.
A total of eight candidates are vying for the presidency, with Gninga Chaning Zenaba being the only female candidate.
Among the contenders are former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie-by-Nze, who served under the Bongo administration, and two senior figures from the former ruling PDG party, Stéphane Germain Iloko and Alain Simplice Boungouères.
Gabonese authorities expect election results to start emerging on Sunday, but the process could take longer, with the official tally possibly stretching into the following week.
Approximately one million voters, both within the country and abroad, are expected to participate. Despite Gabon’s wealth from oil and timber, about 35% of its 2.5 million citizens live below the poverty line.
During the two-week campaign, most candidates focused their efforts on engaging voters in rural areas, while campaigns in Libreville, the capital, were more subdued.
However, Oligui Nguema’s supporters have blanketed the capital with his campaign materials, overshadowing those of his opponents.
Support for Oligui Nguema among some voters, like taxi driver Landry Obame-Mezui, is strong, with many appreciating his action-oriented approach.
Nonetheless, his critics argue that the electoral process has been rigged to favor his candidacy, with new reforms that some see as unfair.
Opposition figure Bilie-by-Nze, who considers himself the necessary change for the country, has criticized Nguema’s transition process and called for the general to “return to the barracks.”
His ties to the former regime, however, continue to undermine his credibility among some voters.
After decades of rule by the Bongo family, many Gabonese citizens are hopeful for a fresh start.
“We want a new Gabon with equitable governance and opportunities for all,” said Noel Kounta, a registered voter. Pharmacist Shonnys Akoulatele voiced similar concerns, urging the new president to focus on reducing unemployment.
Polling ends at 18:00 local time on Saturday, with results expected soon after.
