LIBREVILLE, Gabon -- Gabon will hold a presidential election on April 12, the council of ministers said. The West African country is currently ruled by the military following a coup in August 2023.

Gabon's transitional government said presidential elections would be held on April 12, a key step to reestablish civilian rule after a coup ended the Bongo dynasty's decades-long reign. Government spokesman Seraphin Akure Davain made the announcement early Thursday following a Cabinet meeting.

Gabon’s Council of Ministers announced on Wednesday that the country will hold presidential elections on April 12, 2025. There are concerns about the fairness of the election process, as an exception has been made for interim President General Brice Oligui Nguema to run for president.

The Council of Ministers confirmed the date of the vote after a meeting in Libreville chaired by the military ruler, General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema.

Gabon's transitional government said Thursday that presidential elections would be held on April 12, a key step towards re-establishing civilian rule promised by the ruling junta. Oligiu has vowed to hand the reins back to civilians with elections after a transition period but has also made no secret of his desire to win the presidential race.