Gabon’s Ex-Junter Leader, Brice Oligui Sworn in as President

Brice Oligui Nguema, the general who led a coup that ended the Bongo family’s 55-year rule in Gabon, has been sworn in as the country’s new president.

According to AFP report, the inauguration ceremony which took place on Saturday, May 3, was attended by 20 African heads of state, including Adama Barrow of Gambia, Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal, and Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Oligui, 50, won the presidential election last month with nearly 95 percent of the vote. He faces significant challenges, including revamping the country’s infrastructure, diversifying its economy, and addressing high youth unemployment and public debt.

“All citizens of Greater Libreville are asked to extend a warm welcome to these distinguished guests,” the interior ministry said in a statement, calling on residents to participate in cleaning and beautifying the area around the stadium.

Oligui portrayed himself as a “builder” during his transition period, launching numerous construction projects and vowing to “crack down” on corruption.

PUNCH