Gabon’s president’s party wins most seats in first legislative elections since 2023 coup

LIBREVILLE, Gabon — The Democratic Union of Builders (UDB), a party established by General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, emerged victorious in Gabon’s recent legislative elections. This marked the country’s first parliamentary polls since a military coup in 2023 ended a long-standing political dynasty.

The UDB secured 55 out of the 145 seats in the National Assembly, as per preliminary results announced by the Interior Ministry. Meanwhile, the Gabonese Democratic Party (PDG), led by former president Ali Bongo Ondimba, clinched three seats. In some constituencies, the UDB and PDG ran together and secured four seats.

Oligui Nguema ousted Bongo in the 2023 coup, citing allegations of mismanagement. Subsequently, he won the presidential election in April, signaling a shift back to constitutional governance.

A second round of elections is scheduled for October 11 in 77 constituencies where no candidate secured an absolute majority, predominantly featuring contests between the UDB and PDG.

Gabon operates under a presidential system following the adoption of a new constitution via referendum last year. The legislative authority is constrained, with parliament lacking the power to overthrow the government.

Earlier this year, Gabon’s parliament introduced a controversial electoral law that permitted military personnel, including Oligui Nguema, to participate in the presidential election held in April.