The Latest Breaking News from Gabon

Military leader Brice Oligui Nguema looks to cement his grip on power in national vote.

Gabonese voters began casting ballots on Saturday in a presidential election with eight candidates that is widely expected to make junta chief Brice Oligui Nguema the oil-rich central African country's first elected leader since his 2023 coup.

Military head Oligui Nguema is the strongest candidate, but his ties to the old government have led to criticism.

Gabon stands at a political crossroads this weekend, as the nation heads to the polls for its first presidential election since the 2023 military coup – a vote that could mark a clean break from decades of dynastic rule, or entrench a familiar power under a new guise.

Self-styled anti-corruption crusader Brice Nguema helped overthrow Bongo family dynasty in August 2023

In Gabon, the electoral campaign is in full swing ahead of the presidential election on 12 April, with eight candidates in the running. Who are these seven men and one woman?

Voters in Gabon head to the ballot box on April 12, 2025, in a vote that marks the first election in the Central African nation since a 2023 coup ended the 56-year rule of the Bongo family.

While internet access in Gabon has been stable ever since, the 2023 elections were plagued by restrictions and shutdowns. This is why digital rights advocates are urging the government to continue this trend on Saturday.

The upcoming elections in Gabon will test whether the country is on a firm democratic footing, or whether it will be business as usual with military men in control, but under the guise of democratic choice.

Gabon retook pole position in the race with Cote d'Ivoire to play at the 2026 World Cup with a 2-1 victory over Kenya on Sunday afternoon.

Patrick Assoumou Eyi was found guilty of committing repeated acts of sexual abuse against multiple players and has been banned for life and fined 1m Swiss francs