Jean-Valentin Leyama: a free voice that rises
Jean-Valentin Leyama, an emblematic figure in Gabonese politics, has built a reputation as a man with strong positions, whether in relation to the current transitional regime or in the context of his relations within the opposition. Formerly close to the government under Ali Bongo, Leyama has become a central player in the political debate, critical of both the authorities in place and the excesses of the opposition. His career and his positions reflect the tensions that are shaking the Gabonese political landscape during this period of transition.
Criticism of the parliamentary order and the electoral process
Jean-Valentin Leyama has recently distinguished himself by his fierce opposition to the electoral reforms proposed by the Committee for Transition and Restoration of Institutions (CTRI). During debates on the electoral law, Leyama did not hesitate to denounce what he considers to be a profound illogicality in the positions of certain parliamentarians supporting these reforms. For him, these initiatives only reinforce the old power structures without bringing about real democratic changes.
In an intervention relayed by Gabon Media Time, Leyama said that these reforms lack vision and coherence . He also opposed the idea of a referendum as proposed by the CTRI, believing that the Gabonese population deserves a more inclusive and transparent process. His opposition to this project also highlighted the divisions within the opposition, marking a contrast with other more conciliatory political figures.
Leyama does not just criticize the Bongo and Oligui governments, he has never held his tongue even with his potential allies. We remember his spat with Georges Mpaga, a few weeks before the coup d'état. He was then one of the opposition figures, with his party "Réagir".
This shows that he is a man of free speech, and that the consequences of his frankness matter little to him: he works above all for his conscience and his personal consistency, a rare occurrence in the Gabonese political landscape... and even internationally.
A formidable but controversial political actor
Despite these tensions, Leyama remains a key player in Gabon's political landscape. His harsh criticism of Oligui Nguema's transitional regime is both respected and feared. He has recently expressed concern about what he describes as a "deification" of General Oligui , fearing that the latter is turning into a new authoritarian leader, rather than a transitional leader towards a sustainable democracy.
This critical positioning is not new for Leyama. In 2021, he already denounced the attempts of certain political actors to use his name as a tool in their criticism of Ali Bongo. He had then stated that he did not want to be "served as a business" by those who sought to exploit his image for their partisan interests. This episode illustrates his desire to remain independent and to defend a sincere and thoughtful position, far from political manipulation.
What future for Leyama in the Gabonese political landscape?
Today, Jean-Valentin Leyama stands out for his willingness to maintain a critical stance towards the regime in place, but also for his ability to shake up the opposition itself. His criticism of Oligui Nguema's government and his opposition to parliamentary reforms show that he is determined to play a leading role in the political debates to come.
However, his internal divisions with other opposition leaders could limit his influence in the short term. For Leyama, the challenge is to navigate these troubled waters while maintaining a credible position and rallying a political base broad enough to carry weight in the next elections.
While the Gabonese political landscape remains in flux, one thing is certain: Jean-Valentin Leyama, with his outspokenness and strong positions, will continue to be a key figure to watch, both in the opposition and in the post-transition political debates.
