Gabon Junta Leader to Stand for President in April Vote

Gabon’s military leader Brice Oligui Nguema has announced his candidacy for presidential elections scheduled for next month.

“After careful consideration, I’ve decided to answer your numerous calls and run for president in the April 12 elections,” Nguema, who marked his 50th birthday Monday, told a gathering of supporters in the capital, Libreville. “It’s as a simple citizen with humility and determination that I want to pursue this mission on your behalf,” he said in a video posted on his Facebook page.