Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, the transitional president of Gabon, has been declared the winner of the country's presidential election held on April 12, 2025.
According to provisional results announced by Minister of the Interior and Security, Hermann Immongault, Nguema secured 90.35% of the valid votes cast.
This election marks a significant turning point in Gabon's history, being the first since a military coup in 2023 that ousted the long-ruling Bongo family.
Nguema, who led the coup and was later appointed transitional leader, ran for office amidst controversy over the electoral code, which allowed military personnel to stand as candidates.
Nguema's main challenger, Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze, a former prime minister under Ali Bongo, criticized the electoral process, alleging it was skewed in favor of the ruling candidate.
Bilie-By-Nze also highlighted issues such as state resources being disproportionately used in Nguema's campaign and opposition parties being denied funding.
Gabon, despite its significant oil wealth, with $6 billion in oil exports generated in 2022, faces challenges such as high youth unemployment, nearing 40%, and over a third of citizens living below the poverty line. These issues will likely shape the country's future direction under Nguema's leadership.
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