In April 2025, General Brice Oligui Nguema won Gabon’s presidential election with over 90% votes, strengthening his hold on power after a 2023 military coup that ousted the Bongo family’s four-decade rule. Despite initial promises to step down, he contested and won under a new military-inclusive electoral code.

BulletsIn

• Nguema wins 2025 election, secures over 90% votes
• Took power via military coup in 2023, ending Bongo rule
• Ali Bongo was in power 14 years; family ruled 40+ years
• Nguema was ex-Republican Guard chief, close to Bongo family
• Former PM Bilie-By-Nze conceded defeat on April 14
• Election held peacefully, no major disruptions
• New law allowed military officers to contest elections
• Reflects trend: military rulers returning in West, Central Africa
• Gabon economy oil-driven; 38% of GDP from oil
• Youth unemployment 40%+, corruption still high