© STEVE JORDAN / AFP
Gabonese opposition leader Jean Ping in Libreville on April 15, 2017.
In Gabon, the opposition party Réagir estimated this weekend that no political formation might defeat power alone in the presidential election of 2023. The head of state, in office since 2009, can run once more, even if he has not yet officially declared himself a candidate. In any case, Réagir said it was ready to engage in discussions with the rest of the opposition, while advocating the creation of a united front, as in 2016.
In six years, the political landscape has changed, as have the rules of the game. Several currents cross the opposition on the attitude to adopt for 2023. Some believe that the chips are down in favor of Ali Bongo and boycott is the only way. ” It had been Jean Ping’s choice in the 2018 legislative elections. But it had divided people », Says an observer.
Most parties therefore seem to lean towards participation. Except that Gabon returned to a two-round ballot. The question of a sacred union before the election or between the two rounds therefore arises.
« This reform changes the strategy. The one-round system required a single candidate from the opposition. A large union increased the chances. But from now on, it is better that the parties agree for a withdrawal in the second round “says a politician. According to another opponent, the heavyweights should go for it, even if it means being eliminated in the first round, because “ the militants can accept the sanction of the polls. Rallying in the second round will reduce their sense of injustice he says.
Fear of an election concluded in one round
But not everyone is on the same line. Another politician pleads for a massive rally at the start of the ballot. ” The power will do everything so that there is no second round. If the votes are dispersed, the presidential clan will grant itself an absolute majority from the start “, according to him. For the moment, the opposition parties have contacts, but some plead for the creation of a framework for dialogue in order to decide on the strategy to adopt.
►Also read: Africa press review – Will Ali Bongo return?
