Gabon is holding presidential elections, marking the first time in decades that a member of the Bongo family is not vying for office.
This election follows the ousting of former President Ali Bongo by General Brice Oligui Nguema 19 months ago.
Nguema, who orchestrated the coup, has since altered the constitution, paving the way for his candidacy in this Saturday’s election.
Eight candidates are competing, with only one woman, Gninga Chaning Zenaba, among them.
Other notable challengers include former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie-by-Nze, a Bongo-era official, and long-standing members of the former ruling PDG party, Stéphane Germain Iloko and Alain Simplice Boungouères.
Election results may begin to be announced on Sunday, but the final tally could stretch into next week.
Nearly one million voters, both domestic and from the diaspora, are expected to cast ballots.
Gabon, a small but resource-rich country with a population of 2.5 million, faces a paradox where 35% of its citizens still live in poverty, despite its wealth from oil and timber.
Throughout the campaign, candidates focused on reaching voters outside the capital, Libreville, where the streets are dominated by posters supporting Nguema.
Some residents, like taxi driver Landry Obame-Mezui, express support for Nguema, calling him a “builder” who prioritizes action over speeches.
However, Oligui Nguema faces criticism for manipulating the electoral system in his favour, including a constitutional change and a new electoral code that some see as designed to ensure his victory.
The upper age limit introduced in the reforms also disqualified opposition figure Albert Ondo Ossa, a popular contender.
Bilie-by-Nze, seen as one of Nguema’s main rivals, has criticized the general, urging him to “go back to the barracks,” while also positioning himself as the country’s needed change.
Despite his criticisms, Bilie-by-Nze’s past ties to the former regime still fuel scepticism.
Gabonese voters are eager for change, especially after 55 years of rule under President Omar Bongo and his son, Ali Bongo. Many hope for an end to corruption, unemployment, and cronyism.
“We want a well-managed Gabon with social justice and equal opportunities,” said voter Noel Kounta. Shonnys Akoulatele, a pharmacist, emphasized the importance of job creation, citing the country’s high unemployment rates.
Polling stations will close at 18:00 local time on Saturday, with final results expected to be released soon after.