As Gabon gears up for its presidential election on April 12, 2025, the Rassemblement des Bâtisseurs (RDB) movement, led by transitional President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, continues to gain traction. Several civil society organizations, political groups, and prominent figures have rallied behind the movement, which is seen as a vehicle to support Nguema’s candidacy. Despite not being a formal political party, the RDB is positioning itself as a key force in the election, with widespread backing from various sectors of society.
Marc Ona Essangui, Coordinator of RDB associations, emphasized that the movement is fundamentally tied to Nguema’s vision for Gabon’s future, framing it as a path to national reconstruction and sustainable development. Thierry Akendengue, a member of the RDB, noted that the movement’s appeal lies in its promise to implement ideal public policies and build necessary infrastructure. He highlighted the significant progress seen in Gabon in the last 18 months under Nguema’s leadership, which has fuelled optimism among supporters.
Political analyst Modeste Abagha suggested that the surge in support for the RDB reflects strategic positioning by various factions seeking to maximise their influence post-election. With a field of candidates that includes Nguema, former prime minister Alain-Claude Billy Bizet, and a mix of other candidates, this election marks a departure from the norm, as none of the candidates represent a traditional political party—a shift not seen since Gabon embraced multiparty politics in the 1990s. The outcome of the race is expected to shape the nation’s political landscape for years to come. It will be recalled that the electoral campaign started over the weekend.