The Union nationale (UN) party in Gabon is set to organize its ordinary congress, with the primary agenda being the renewal of its leadership team. According to Dr. Minault Maxime Zima Ebeyard, the party's secretary executive, the congress date is yet to be determined but is expected to take place before December 2026. A committee led by Mme Flavienne Adiahenot is currently working on the organization and will present its findings to the Bureau national by September 30, 2026.
The congress comes at a time when the party is evaluating its performance in the recent general elections, where it secured four seats in the National Assembly and two in the Senate. Dr. Zima Ebeyard described the results as a disappointment, stating that the party had aimed to win more seats. Despite this, he emphasized that the UN has a strong foundation and will continue to support President Oligui Nguema Brice Clotaire's policy, as it did during the transition period.
The party's stance on its relationship with the government has been a topic of discussion, with some questioning whether it will maintain its opposition or work closely with the Union démocratique des bâtisseurs (UDB). Dr. Zima Ebeyard clarified that the UN is an independent and free political force that supports the president's policy, and it is willing to collaborate with other forces that share similar goals.
The congress is also expected to address the issue of party governance and the emergence of new leaders. According to Dr. Zima Ebeyard, the UN prioritizes ideological commitment and engagement over biological renewal. The party seeks to ensure that its members share a common ideological foundation and ambition for the country before selecting a leader.
The Ministry of Interior's recent launch of a process to reform the legal framework for political parties has sparked controversy, with some viewing it as a democratic setback. Dr. Zima Ebeyard expressed concerns that the reform may restrict the creation of new parties and limit democratic space. He cited France as an example, where parties like the RN and La France insoumise might not have been able to emerge under similar regulations.
The UN has expressed its support for the government's priorities and efforts to improve the lives of Gabonese citizens. Dr. Zima Ebeyard praised President Oligui Nguema's hands-on approach to monitoring projects and ensuring their implementation. However, he also acknowledged the complexity of the challenges facing the country and the need for patience.
As the congress approaches, the UN is expected to present its vision for the country's future and its stance on the government's actions. Dr. Zima Ebeyard assured that the party will use its channels to provide feedback on the government's performance and suggest areas for improvement.
Key points
- The Union nationale party in Gabon is set to hold its congress, focusing on leadership renewal and cooperation with the government.
- The party's performance in recent elections has been evaluated, with a view to improving its strategy.
- The congress will also address party governance and the emergence of new leaders.
