Brice Oligui Nguema has officially won the Gabon presidential election with 90.35% of votes, according to Gabon’s interior minister. The announcement came a day after citizens cast their ballots. This result confirms that Brice Oligui Nguema, who led the 2023 Gabon coup, has solidified his hold on power. Nearly two years after removing the Bongo family from leadership, Nguema now rules with a strong mandate. The Gabon presidential election 2025 reflects voter preference for continuity and reform.
Brice Oligui Nguema Defeats Old Regime with Landslide Victory
Alain Claude Bilie By Nze, the former prime minister under Ali Bongo, came second with just 3.02%. His low score shows a clear rejection of the previous political order. Brice Oligui Nguema campaigned as a reformer. His slogan, “We Build Together,” appeared on hats, posters, and t-shirts across Gabon. He promised to fight corruption and reduce dependence on oil. The massive margin by which Brice Oligui Nguema won the Gabon presidential election shows strong public support.
High Turnout and Economic Optimism After Gabon Presidential Election
Voter turnout was 70.40%, a major rise from the 56.65% recorded in the disputed 2023 election. That election had declared Ali Bongo as the winner for a third term. But it led to the military coup led by Brice Oligui Nguema. Investors were watching the Gabon presidential election 2025 closely. Many hoped for a peaceful and credible outcome that could stabilize the country. According to analyst Mucahid Durmaz, “Prolonged political uncertainty and military rule have harmed Gabon’s economy and increased its debt.”
Durmaz added that a democratically elected leader like Brice Oligui Nguema, with a clear mandate, could now engage global lenders. In 2024, Gabon’s economy grew by 2.9%, up from 2.4% in 2023. Growth was driven by improved infrastructure and higher production of oil, manganese, and timber. The election result gives hope that Nguema’s leadership could help Gabon achieve more economic reforms and debt control.
Nguema’s Presidency Begins with Mixed Expectations
Under Gabon’s new constitution approved in 2024, Brice Oligui Nguema’s victory gives him a seven-year term, renewable once. Though he promises to move away from the Bongo era, critics say he still has ties. Nguema served as aide-de-camp to Omar Bongo, who ruled Gabon for over 40 years. Still, Brice Oligui Nguema now presents himself as a leader ready for change. He plans to improve agriculture, tourism, and industry. He also aims to reduce poverty, which affects about one-third of Gabon’s population.
While the election result strengthens Nguema’s grip, some question the fairness of such a wide margin. Observers say the real test lies in his next steps. Will Brice Oligui Nguema deliver true reform, or will Gabon remain under the shadow of the old guard?
Nguema’s Win Signals New Chapter in Gabon’s Politics
Brice Oligui Nguema’s winning the Gabon presidential election with 90.35% is a strong political message. He now has the legitimacy and power to lead Gabon into a new era. The 2025 election may become a turning point if Nguema follows through on his promises. Voters, investors, and the global community now wait to see if Gabon’s coup leader can become a true democratic reformer.