Gabon Votes for President After Military Coup

Gabon is holding a presidential election on Saturday, marked by the expectation of a victory for interim President Brice Oligui Nguema, who led a coup in August 2023. Nguema, campaigning on an anti-corruption platform, is facing main opposition from former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze. Critics argue that the election process is skewed in favor of Nguema, as he has not fulfilled promises to transition power to a civilian government. The election is significant as it represents Gabon's first step back to civilian rule after decades of Bongo family governance, which was marred by corruption and economic challenges. Observers, including those from the EU, are present to monitor the election, which could indicate how Gabon navigates its democratic transition amid high unemployment and poverty. Results are expected in the coming days, following the closing of polls at 6 p.m. local time.