Gabon President Announces Candidacy for Upcoming Elections in August

Gabonese President Ali Bongo announced on Sunday that he will run in the upcoming presidential elections in August, aiming to extend his family's grip on power, which has lasted for 56 years. Bongo stated before a small group of supporters, "Because nothing is more important than your success, I announce today my candidacy." The elections are scheduled for August 26. Bongo (64 years old) has held the presidency for two seven-year terms since succeeding his father, Omar Bongo, who passed away in 2009 after ruling since 1967. In Gabon, there are no constitutional limits on presidential terms. Bongo's victory in the 2016 elections led to deadly clashes between police and protesters, during which the parliament building was set on fire.