Following his election on 21 February, Raphaël Edzang is preparing to formally assume leadership of the Rassemblement pour le Gabon (RPG). The handover ceremony is set for Saturday, 27 June, at the party’s headquarters in the Petit Paris district of Libreville, according to details from within the political organization established by Paul Mba Abessole.

The investiture of the new leader will serve as a platform for him to outline his strategic vision, establish the party’s direction for the coming years, and share his perspective on the major issues currently shaping the national landscape.

A new era for the RPG

“The RPG is change, and change is now” is the fresh mantra adopted by the incoming leadership team, which takes over from Laurent Angué Mezui. Through this slogan, the party’s new figurehead intends to breathe new life into the political movement, prioritizing transparency, national development, and a closer connection to the needs of the population.

Furthermore, Raphaël Edzang aims to re-establish the RPG as a primary force for policy proposals and a key participant in the country’s political life.

Professional background and political journey

An economist by training, Raphaël Edzang is a senior official born on 25 October 1970, in Ellelem 1, located in the Woleu Ntem province. His career includes significant experience at the General Directorate of Public Procurement (DGMP), where he served as the Director of Public Procurement.

His involvement with the RPG dates back to 2009, when he first served as a special advisor to the party president. Since then, he has remained committed to the party, which nominated him as a candidate in the legislative elections of 2011, 2018, 2023, and 2025.

The RPG was founded in the late 1990s by Paul Mba Abessole following a split within the Rassemblement national des bucherons (RNB). Historically a powerful opposition force, the party later joined the presidential majority under the late President Omar Bongo Ondimba, whom it had previously challenged vigorously.