The official roster of candidates was revealed by the interior minister on Sunday, following the deadline for registration.

Out of the 20 candidates who initially filed their nominations, 19 were disqualified; they have a 72-hour window to challenge the decision with the Constitutional Court.

Nguema took power in a 2023 military coup, marking the end of Ali Bongo’s lengthy tenure and family rule.

There is widespread speculation regarding whether Nguema intends to hold onto power, as a new constitution introduced last year does not prevent him from running for office.

The constitution, which was approved by the overwhelming majority of the Gabonese population in a referendum, is hailed by the military regime as a progress toward democratic governance.

Among the contenders, Alain-Claude Bilie By Nze, the last Prime Minister under Ali Bongo, is considered Nguema’s chief adversary.

Other candidates include Doctor Stéphane Germain Iloko, a former Gabonese Democratic Party executive, and Joseph Lapensée Essigone, a lawyer and former tax inspector.

All four candidates will run as independents, with the campaign period scheduled to begin on 29th March.