Gabon’s military junta announced that a new constitution was overwhelmingly backed by voters in a recent referendum, with 91.8 percent approval. The constitution limits presidential terms and excludes dynastic succession, eliminating former leader Ali Bongo from eligibility. Despite a reported voter turnout of 53.54 percent, concerns about job security and governance linger as the country transitions back to civilian rule by 2025.
Gabon’s military leaders reported overwhelming approval for a new constitution following a recent referendum, marking a significant transition for the oil-rich nation. Provisional results provided on Sunday indicated that approximately 91.8 percent of the voters supported the new constitution, while the voter turnout was reported at 53.54 percent. Despite the lower turnout figures compared to earlier reports, no major voting incidents occurred across the 2,835 polling stations.
The constitution proposes a presidential term limit of two seven-year terms, abolishes the position of prime minister, and prohibits dynastic successions. It also mandates that presidential candidates must be Gabonese, eliminating former leader Ali Bongo Ondimba from future elections. Transitional President Brice Oligui Nguema described the referendum as a pivotal moment for the nation.
However, the process has drawn criticism, with opponents arguing that the constitution is designed to facilitate an authoritarian regime. Several citizens voted in favor of the proposition, citing their trust in the current military leadership, even as some admitted to not fully understanding the comprehensive document they supported.
Concerns linger regarding job availability and governance, with unemployment being the primary issue for many citizens surveyed. Nonetheless, around 87 percent of participants in a prior survey reported a belief that the country is moving in the right direction, contributing to Brice Oligui Nguema’s favorable perception ahead of the scheduled presidential elections in August 2025.
As the final count awaits confirmation from the constitutional court, the junta has emphasized their desire for a transparent electoral environment. The referendum and the reactions surrounding it could reshape Gabon’s political dynamics as it aims towards returning power to civilian governance.
The political landscape in Gabon has been markedly influenced by a military coup that occurred in August 2022, which resulted in the dismissal of Ali Bongo Ondimba after his controversial election win. The junta, which now governs, has sought to stabilize the country through constitutional reform. The proposed new constitution aims to address long-standing concerns regarding governance, presidential power, and the potential for dynastic rule, as well as to promote economic and social stability following years of perceived mismanagement and corruption under Bongo’s administration.
In summary, Gabon has taken a significant step forward by proposing a new constitution that aims to redefine presidential governance while addressing the elements of stability and legitimacy in its political system. Although the referendum approval is viewed as a victory for the junta, ongoing criticism and social concerns regarding job security and governance remain salient. The forthcoming presidential elections will be critical in determining the future political direction of Gabon.
Original Source: www.tiogapublishing.com
