Gabon: Election Date set for Sets April 2025

Gabon's new strongman General Brice Oligui Nguema (R) salutes as he is inaugurated as Gabon's interim President, in Libreville on September 4, 2023. Gabon's coup leader vowed after being sworn in as interim president on September 4, 2023 to restore civilian rule through "free, transparent and credible elections" after a transition and amnesty prisoners of conscience. (Photo by AFP) (Photo by -/AFP via Getty Images)

Gabon, currently under military administration following the August 2023 coup, will hold a presidential election on April 12, 2025, according to a statement released after a council of ministers meeting. This announcement follows the recent adoption of a new electoral code, which outlines rules for organizing elections across the country. The measure still requires ratification by Gabon’s Constitutional Court.

One of the most contentious aspects of the new electoral code is its provision allowing serving military personnel to be candidates in all political elections—a departure from past regulations. This change could pave the way for General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, the officer who led the coup that unseated former President Ali Bongo Ondimba, to compete for a first presidential term.

Gabon’s new constitution, enacted by referendum in November, stipulates a seven-year presidential term, renewable once. The upcoming ballot will mark the country’s transition back to civilian-led governance if it proceeds as planned. Critics, however, voice concern about the military’s deepening role in politics. Some argue that granting uniformed officers the freedom to run for public office endangers the principle of separation between military and civilian domains.

International observers will closely watch the lead-up to April’s vote. Political tensions remain high, and the adoption of the electoral code has reignited debates on democratic norms within Gabon. While supporters view the reforms as necessary to stabilize the country, opponents warn that they might permanently entrench military influence in governance.