5 Things to Know about Gabon’s Interim Prime Minister Ndong Sima

In a military coup that ousted President Ali Bongo, Gabon finds itself at a crossroads. And, as the Central African nation grapples with its new reality, Raymond Ndong Sima has been appointed to steer the ship. Appointed as the interim Prime Minister by the ruling military junta, Ndong Sima is tasked with navigating through Gabon’s transitional period. 

As a man of many facets, his appointment has been met with both curiosity and cautious optimism. As Gabonese citizens and the international community alike seek to understand the man who will play a pivotal role in shaping Gabon’s future, we will look into some key aspects of Raymond Ndong Sima that you should know. 

He was a former opposition leader of Alli Bongo

Before becoming interim Prime Minister, Raymond Ndong Sima was a key opposition leader who openly criticized President Ali Bongo. He actively challenged Bongo’s rule, even running against him in elections. His political life took a dramatic turn when Bongo was ousted in a military coup on August 30, 2023. Now, Ndong Sima has the chance to implement the changes he had been advocating for, as he steps into a leadership role during Gabon’s transitional period.

He served as Prime Minister under Bongo 

Interestingly, the role of Prime Minister isn’t a new challenge for Raymond Ndong Sima as he’s been there before. Serving under President Ali Bongo from 2012 to 2014, Ndong Sima gained firsthand experience in governance and the intricacies of Gabonese politics. This prior stint could be invaluable now, as he assumes the role of interim Prime Minister during a critical transitional period for Gabon. 

His previous experience could help give him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, potentially equipping him with the insights needed to navigate the country through its current political landscape effectively.

He ran against Bongo in the just-concluded election

After his tenure as Prime Minister from 2012 to 2014, Raymond Ndong Sima made a bold political move: he resigned in 2016 to directly challenge President Ali Bongo in the presidential elections. This decision marked a significant shift in his political career, transitioning from a government insider to an opposition figure. 

Ndong Sima’s commitment to change didn’t stop there, he also participated in the 2023 elections as part of an opposition coalition. 

He is the first civilian leader appointed by the junta

The appointment of Raymond Ndong Sima as interim Prime Minister holds special significance, as he is the first civilian leader chosen by the military junta that seized power in Gabon. This decision could be a calculated move aimed at striking a balance between military and civilian governance during this transitional phase. 

Sima is an experienced economist

At 68 years old, Raymond Ndong Sima brings a wealth of experience to his role as Gabon’s interim Prime Minister, particularly with his background in economics. In a country facing a transitional period, his economic expertise could be a game-changer. Navigating economic stability and growth during political upheaval is a complex task, and Ndong Sima’s background equips him with the tools to potentially steer Gabon in a positive direction.