Gabonese President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema recently extended his stay in Port-Gentil, the capital of Ogooué-Maritime province. The president's prolonged visit comes as a surprise, especially during a time when world leaders are gathering at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Instead of attending, President Oligui Nguema chose to stay in Port-Gentil, where he has been launching several development projects and making key announcements.
During his stay, President Oligui Nguema chaired a session of the Conseil supérieur de la magistrature (CSM) and a meeting of the Conseil des ministres. The CSM session resulted in the confirmation of disciplinary measures, including the radiation of high-ranking magistrates and a change in leadership at the Cour des comptes. These decisions have sparked interest among the Gabonese people, particularly regarding the fate of Alex Euv Moutsiangou, the former first president of the Cour des comptes.
The Conseil des ministres meeting saw the adoption of the 2027 budget, which sets the state's resources and charges at 6,223.1 billion FCFA, up from 5,495.2 billion FCFA in 2026. This represents an increase of 727.9 billion FCFA. The budget will now be transmitted to parliament for review. Additionally, the president announced that Port-Gentil will host the Fête de la Libération in 2028.
President Oligui Nguema's commitment to the development of Ogooué-Maritime province is evident in his latest announcements. A sum of 30 billion FCFA has been allocated to support the province's growth and revitalization. The president aims to restore the province's former dynamism and prominence. Several projects have been launched, including the construction of 848 housing units, which has been awarded to a Chinese company.
The president's extended stay in Port-Gentil has significant implications for the region. It marks a rare instance of a Gabonese head of state spending an extended period in a province outside of their hometown. President Oligui Nguema's actions demonstrate a particular attachment to the Ogooué-Maritime region, where he spent part of his childhood.
The Gabonese people are welcoming the president's focus on the region, but some are also raising questions about potential favoritism. As the country continues to develop, many are eager to see similar attention and investment directed towards other provinces. President Oligui Nguema's administration will need to balance regional development and address concerns about fairness and equality.
In a separate development, the Église évangélique du Gabon (EEG) is facing a crisis, with internal conflicts prompting the establishment of a committee of wise men to find a resolution. The situation requires careful handling, and the Gabonese people can only hope for a successful outcome. Meanwhile, President Oligui Nguema's engagement with the Ogooué-Maritime region will continue to be closely watched by the nation.
Key points
- President Oligui Nguema extends stay in Port-Gentil to launch development projects and make key announcements.
