Oligui’s Party Leads Gabon’s First Post-Coup Legislative Elections

The Democratic Union of Builders (UDB), founded by President Brice Oligui Nguema, has taken the lead in Gabon’s legislative elections, securing 55 out of 145 seats in the first round.

It is the country’s first parliamentary vote since the 2023 coup that ended the Bongo family’s five-decade rule. Former President Ali Bongo’s PDG won only three seats, with both parties sharing four on joint tickets.

A runoff on October 11 will decide 77 remaining constituencies, mostly contested between the UDB and PDG.

Although legislative powers are limited under the restored presidential system, analysts view the vote as a key test of Gabon’s transition back to constitutional rule after Oligui’s April election win under a new electoral code.