Gabon's newly elected military leader General Brice Oligui Nguema, says he will restore dignity to the Gabonese people.

He promised to return to the people everything that has been stolen from them

Nguema declared the country’s foreign policy a success, citing increased international engagement and diplomatic achievements under his leadership.

He stated that he intends to make Gabonese foreign policy assertive adding that Gabon has positioned itself as a cooperative partner with major global powers, including the United States, France, Russia, and China.

Diplomatic milestones

Nguema highlighted a series of diplomatic milestones achieved in under two years stating that Gabon has received 20 ambassadors, with six accredited in Libreville.

He observed that new embassies have opened, including those from the United Kingdom and India.

Background

In 2023 Nguema led a coup that ended a near-60-year dynasty. He won last Saturday's presidential election with more than 90 per cent of the votes cast.

Ahead of the vote, critics argued that the new constitution and electoral code were designed to give Nguema a comfortable pathway to the top job.

Some opposition heavyweights who could have posed a serious political challenge were excluded from the race.

His election victory consolidates his grip on power, nearly two years after he masterminded the demise of President Ali Bongo, whose family had been in power in Gabon since 1967.