Key points:
- Obiang backs Oligui for Gabon leadership
- April polls aim for constitutional transition
- Energy deal links Equatorial Guinea, Gabon
EQUATORIAL Guinea’s President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, who currently heads the Economic Community of Central African States, called on Gabonese voters to support their leader, General Brice Oligui Nguema, in the upcoming presidential elections on April 12, AFP reports.
Speaking during a ceremony marking the connection of Equatorial Guinea’s electricity grid with Gabon, Obiang voiced his strong support for Oligui, who has led a transitional administration since taking power in a coup on August 30, 2023. The coup ended the decades-long rule of the Bongo dynasty in Gabon.
Backing for stability
Addressing the people of Gabon, Obiang said, ‘Be wise!… If you want everything to go well for you, this [Oligui] is your leader.’ He emphasised the importance of unity and stability, warning against opposition that could lead to chaos. ‘Those who want to create chaos are not on the side of Africa,’ he added in remarks shared on TikTok.
General Brice Oligui Nguema, a former head of Gabon’s presidential guard, has hinted at running in the upcoming elections but has not yet formally declared his candidacy. The April 12 polls mark an important step toward a return to a constitutional system in Gabon.
Energy deal strengthens ties
During the ceremony, Obiang highlighted a new energy agreement between Equatorial Guinea and Gabon, under which Equatorial Guinea will supply 10 megawatts of power to its neighbour. This initiative aims to strengthen Gabon’s electricity network, which has faced frequent power cuts and growing public discontent.
Obiang’s message was clear: ‘All power comes from God. How is it that God appoints a leader and then some people say they don’t accept him? Is this normal? It’s up to you to judge. I am only advising,’ he said.
Transition and upcoming elections
General Oligui expressed his gratitude for Obiang’s ‘wise advice and constant support since the beginning of the transition in Gabon.’ According to AFP, the April election is seen as a pivotal moment for Gabon as it transitions back to constitutional rule. Candidates for the upcoming election have until Thursday to submit their candidacies, with the official campaign period set to run from March 29 to April 11.
As of now, no formal candidacy has been declared, but anticipation is building around Oligui’s potential run for a seven-year mandate.
Focus on regional unity
Obiang’s public endorsement underscores a broader call for regional stability and unity. His remarks come amid concerns over political tensions and economic challenges across Central Africa. By connecting energy resources and advocating for continuity in leadership, the leaders of Equatorial Guinea and Gabon are aiming to foster cooperation and strengthen their economic ties.
With the April elections fast approaching, the outcome will be a critical test for Gabon’s efforts to stabilise and return to a constitutional system following last year’s political upheaval.
