Gabon’s military leader, Brice Oligui Nguema, will compete against three challengers in the presidential election on April 12.
The strongest opponent is former Prime Minister Alain-Claude Bilie By Nze, who served under ousted President Ali Bongo.
Oligui, who led the coup that ended the Bongo family’s 55-year rule, also faces lawyer Joseph Lapensee Essingone and doctor Stephane Germain Iloko Boussengui.
Out of 23 candidates, only four were approved, with 19, including trade unionist Jean-Remy Yama, rejected.
Oligui, who announced his candidacy on March 3, promised to return power to civilians.
A new electoral code permits military officers to run for office.
He confirmed his request to temporarily leave his military position was granted.
Running as an independent, Oligui said, “I am fit to enter politics and even hold the supreme office.”
Campaigning starts on March 29, with no date set for a possible runoff.
