Brice Oligui Nguema, the military leader who dismantled decades of dynastic rule in Gabon, will be officially sworn in as president on Saturday, marking the end of a lengthy political transition and the beginning of a new era in Libreville.
The former general, who took power following the August 2023 coup that removed Ali Bongo from office, cemented his leadership with a commanding electoral win last month, capturing nearly 95% of the vote. Saturday’s inauguration is set to take place at the Angondjé Stadium, just outside the capital, and will be the largest public ceremony of its kind in Gabonese history.
Regional Leaders Head to Libreville
Heads of state from across the continent are expected to attend the inauguration, signaling strong regional interest in Gabon’s political direction. Confirmed attendees include Gambia’s Adama Barrow, Senegal’s Bassirou Diomaye Faye, Djibouti’s Ismail Omar Guelleh, and Equatorial Guinea’s Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo.
Also joining are Democratic Republic of Congo’s Félix Tshisekedi and Rwanda’s Paul Kagame—an important development as both leaders are currently engaged in negotiations to defuse tensions in eastern DRC.
A National Stage for the People
The swearing-in will be held at Angondjé Stadium, a 40,000-seat facility built as part of a Gabon-China cooperation initiative. For the first time, the public will be invited to witness a presidential inauguration, with free tickets and planned artistic showcases, a military parade, and an evening “victory concert” along Libreville’s coast.
In preparation, municipal crews have been clearing roads and repainting key routes. The interior ministry has called on Libreville residents to join beautification efforts and extend warm hospitality to foreign dignitaries.
“All citizens of Greater Libreville are asked to warmly welcome these distinguished guests,” the ministry said in a statement, appealing for community participation near the venue.
Formidable Economic Headwinds Await
Nguema, 50, now moves from transitional leader to elected head of state, facing mounting challenges in a country rich in oil but burdened by structural issues. Power cuts remain common due to outdated infrastructure, youth unemployment is estimated at 40%, and the road network remains severely underdeveloped.
Adding to the pressure is Gabon’s public debt, which is projected to reach 80% of GDP this year. Reviving the economy and restoring public trust will require decisive action, and fast.
Since taking charge, Nguema has positioned himself as a reformist, launching infrastructure projects and pledging a crackdown on corruption. Now, with a formal mandate, he faces the reality of turning campaign promises into tangible outcomes for a population eager for change.
As the Bongo family’s long chapter in Gabonese politics closes, Oligui Nguema’s presidency begins under high expectations—and intense scrutiny.