Gabon has recorded a remarkable voter turnout of over 87% in its presidential election held on 12 April, marking the first such national vote since the political transition that followed the fall of President Ali Bongo’s regime in 2023.
According to the Ministry of the Interior and Security, 87.21% of registered voters cast their ballots by the close of polls at 6:30pm.
The figure represents a dramatic increase from the 46.53% turnout recorded earlier in the day at 3:00pm, signalling a powerful show of civic engagement both within Gabon and among its diaspora.
Authorities reported that the vote took place peacefully across the country.
A total of 3,037 polling stations were operational, including 96 overseas locations in cities such as Addis Ababa, Abidjan, Madrid and Brussels, ensuring broad access for the estimated 920,200 eligible voters.
This historic election features eight candidates vying for the presidency, among them transitional leader General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema and former Prime Minister Alain-Claude Bilie-By-Nze.
The Ministry praised what it described as a “civic spirit” and “remarkable commitment by citizens during this decisive phase of the transition.”
The vote was closely monitored by 2,450 election observers from 48 accredited missions.
While some delays were reported at polling stations in the capital, Libreville, officials confirmed that no major incidents occurred.
In a departure from previous elections, authorities refrained from shutting down borders or suspending internet access.
However, the government did temporarily close bars by ministerial order.
Provisional results are expected to be released in the coming days, with both national and international observers watching closely as Gabon navigates this critical moment in its democratic journey.
