Gabon: Abdul Razzak Kabongo beaten in the polls by Imam Benyamin Andjoua Obolo

The imams of Gabon unanimously rejected on Saturday the candidacy of Abdul Razzak Kabongo for the presidency of the Higher Council of Islamic Affairs of Gabon (CSAIG) in favor of Imam Benyamin Andjoua Obolo, who has been interim leader of this highest institution of the Muslim faith in Gabon, according to the results of a vote at the end of the 5th congress of the community held on Saturday in Libreville.

Only 4 imams voted in favor of Abdul Razzak Kabongo (9.76%) against 37 imams in favor of his opponent Benyamin Andjoua Obolo, representing 90.24% of voters.

This clear and straightforward vote designates Imam Benyamin Andjoua Obolo as the president of the Muslim community in Gabon.

If Abdul Razzak Kabongo, who reportedly had the support of the coastal region according to unofficial sources, does not contest his defeat, the newly elected official now succeeds Imam Ismaël Oceni Ossa who led the community for about two decades.

Islam is a minority religion in Gabon. However, it has long been highlighted in the country because former Gabonese presidents, Omar Bongo and his son Ali Bongo, were faithful and practicing followers. Islam has therefore often been considered the “official” religion in Gabon.

The grand imam has always had a protocol rank in Gabon, a country where religious tolerance is a dogma.

Marie Dorothée