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In a landmark moment for Gabon, Military leader Brice Oligui Nguema has been declared the winner of the 2025 presidential election, securing an overwhelming 90.35% of the vote. This victory, announced by the Interior Ministry, marks a significant step in Gabon’s transition from military rule to constitutional governance.

Nguema, who led the 2023 military coup that ended 55 years of Bongo family rule, was widely expected to win the election.

His closest rival, Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze, managed only 3.02% of the vote, with the remaining six candidates receiving less than 1% each. Voter turnout was notably high at 70.4%, reflecting strong public engagement in this pivotal election.

The election, held on April 12, 2025, was Gabon’s first since the coup and a critical milestone in the nation’s political transition. Nguema, who resigned from his military role to run for office, campaigned on promises of transparency and reform. Despite concerns raised by Bilie-By-Nze about potential irregularities in vote counting, the electoral process was widely regarded as transparent and peaceful.

Observers reported that 94.8% of polling stations operated under satisfactory conditions, and transparency was deemed satisfactory in 98.6% of cases. This election sets the stage for Nguema’s seven-year term under Gabon’s new constitution, as the country looks to rebuild and redefine its future.

Nguema’s victory is seen as a mandate for change in a nation where one-third of the population lives below the poverty line despite its resource wealth. Addressing unemployment, infrastructure deficits, and government debt are expected to be key priorities for the new administration.

This election not only marks the end of an era but also the beginning of a new chapter in Gabon’s history, as the nation embraces a new vision under Nguema’s leadership.

StreetReporters.ng

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