# Gabon heads to the polls this weekend for its first presidential election since the 2023 military coup that ended the Bongo family’s 56-year rule. Coup leader Brice Oligui Nguema, now transitional president, is running for office, with former-prime minister Alain Claude Bilie By Nze his main rival. Nguema is seen as the frontrunner, backed by his coup role and political control. Supporters see the vote as a chance for change and a symbol of hope for Gabon’s future.
Gabon prepares for first election since 2023 coup