Gabon’s military rulers have reported that 91.8% of voters approved a new constitution in a recent referendum aimed at restoring governance after a coup. The constitution imposes term limits on the presidency and eliminates the prime minister role. Although voter turnout was lower than expected, the transitional president labeled the referendum a success. Nonetheless, there are mixed feelings among the populace regarding potential authoritarianism.
Gabon recently announced the provisional results of a referendum, indicating that a new constitution has been overwhelmingly approved by voters. The military junta, which has governed since a coup in August 2023, reported that 91.8 percent of the 860,000 registered voters supported the new constitutional framework, which establishes a presidency limited to two seven-year terms and eliminates the position of prime minister. Voter turnout was reported at 53.54 percent, a decline from earlier estimates, suggesting mixed engagement in the electoral process.
The proposed constitution aims to prevent dynastic succession in leadership, as it mandates that presidential candidates must be exclusively Gabonese citizens with at least one Gabonese-born parent and a Gabonese spouse. These stipulations would disqualify the former ruler, Ali Bongo Ondimba, and his children from future candidacy. Brice Oligui Nguema, the transitional president, described the referendum as a significant advancement for the country, reiterating a commitment to returning power to civilian governance within two years.
Despite the junta’s calls for participation, there are concerns about transparency and fairness during the campaign, which has been perceived as heavily propagandized. Local media noted the potential for voter turnout to impact perceptions of legitimacy. During the voting process, security measures were heightened, with military personnel overseeing polling stations, and no significant incidents were reported.
Opinions among the populace are divided. While some, like civil servant Nathalie Badzoko, expressed support for the junta and the constitutional changes—albeit confessed to not fully understanding the details—critics argue the provisions cater exclusively to entrenched power dynamics. Lawyer Marlene Fabienne Essola Efountame warned against the emergence of a dictator designing a constitution to suit personal ambitions.
The interior ministry has asserted its commitment to conducting a transparent electoral process and invited international observers, contrasting the previous absence during the August presidential elections. A survey indicated a sizeable majority of respondents believe the country is progressing, yet unemployment remains the overwhelming concern among citizens. With over 46 percent expressing great confidence in Oligui, the potential for his success in the upcoming presidential election looms large as Gabon navigates these political changes.
The political landscape in Gabon has shifted dramatically following a military coup in August 2023, which resulted in the ousting of the long-standing president, Ali Bongo Ondimba. The junta has since proposed a new constitution intended to redefine governance in the oil-rich nation. Key changes include a limit on presidential terms and provisions designed to ensure that only Gabonese citizens can run for president. Widespread concerns about corruption and governance under the previous regime prompted the military’s intervention, leading to a vote aimed at restoring legitimacy and public trust in the government.
The recent referendum results in Gabon signal significant changes in the country’s governance structure. With an overwhelming majority supporting the new constitution, there are hopes for a more democratic process ahead. However, the military’s influence and the potential for continued authoritarian control raise concerns among critics. As Gabon strives for political stability, the upcoming elections will be a crucial test of its commitment to democratic norms and civilian rule.
Original Source: www.tiogapublishing.com
