Gabon Inaugurates Brice Oligui Nguema as President Following Electoral Victory

Gabon swore in Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema as its president, marking the culmination of a transitional process that began with a military coup in August 2023. Oligui, the former junta leader who ousted the Bongo family’s 55-year dynastic rule, secured a landslide victory in the presidential election held on April 12, 2025, winning approximately 90% of the vote. 

The inauguration ceremony, held in Libreville, was attended by dignitaries, including regional leaders and international observers, who praised the peaceful conduct of the election and Gabon’s return to civilian rule.

Oligui’s rise to power followed widespread discontent with the Bongo regime, which had been marred by allegations of corruption and mismanagement despite Gabon’s substantial oil and timber wealth. As commander of the elite Republican Guard, Oligui led a bloodless coup hours after electoral authorities declared Ali Bongo the winner of a disputed 2023 election. 

During his 20-month transitional leadership, Oligui implemented reforms to stabilize the economy, including acquiring Gabonese assets from foreign oil companies and upgrading the country’s railway infrastructure. His administration also freed political detainees and maintained cordial relations with international partners, particularly France, in contrast to anti-Western sentiments in other African juntas.

The election, which saw a 70.4% voter turnout, was described as transparent, with foreign media allowed to film ballot counts for the first time. Oligui’s main rival, Alain-Claude Bilie-By-Nze, the last prime minister under Ali Bongo, garnered only 3% of the vote. 

In his inaugural address, Oligui pledged to restore dignity to Gabonese citizens, reduce poverty, and leverage the country’s natural resources for national development. Despite his popularity, challenges remain, as over a third of Gabon’s 2.5 million people live below the poverty line. Oligui’s presidency is seen as a test of whether his military-backed vision can translate into sustainable governance and equitable growth.