Gabon’s military junta reported that 91.8% of voters supported a new constitution in a recent referendum. The proposed constitution limits presidential terms and disqualifies candidates married to non-Gabonese. Despite calls from authorities for participation, voter turnout was lower than expected at 53.54%. Citizens express mixed feelings on the degree of genuine democratic reform represented by the vote, as critical concerns about governance linger.
Gabon’s military rulers announced provisional results indicating that voters have overwhelmingly approved a new constitution in a recent referendum. This marks a pivotal moment for the oil-rich African nation, with an estimated 860,000 registered voters engaging in the process. Authorities had heavily campaigned via various channels urging citizens to participate, casting either a green ballot for ‘yes’ or a red one for ‘no’.
The newly proposed constitution outlines a presidency limited to two seven-year terms, eliminates the position of prime minister, and prevents dynastic succession. The Committee for the Transition and Restoration of Institutions (CTRI) stated that approximately 91.8 percent of voters were in favor of this constitutional change. However, voter turnout was reported at 53.54 percent, notably lower than the previously estimated 71 percent.
Voting proceeded without major incidents across 2,835 polling stations, and authorities had extended a nighttime curfew to midnight throughout the electoral period. Additionally, the new constitution stipulates that future presidential candidates must be exclusively Gabonese, disqualifying former President Ali Bongo Ondimba from future elections due to his marriage to a French citizen.
Brice Oligui Nguema, the transitional president, hailed the referendum as a substantial advancement for the nation while casting his vote. He exchanged his military uniform for casual attire, emphasizing a commitment to return power to civilians after a two-year transition, despite aspirations to contest in the upcoming presidential election.
The campaign surrounding the referendum has been characterized by official propaganda supporting the junta, overriding concerns of whether this initiative was a genuine referendum or merely a prelude to a presidential campaign. Voter queues formed at polling stations, with security provided by military personnel who monitored the voting process.
Some citizens voiced support for the junta, indicating trust despite limited understanding of the constitutional text. Critics, including legal officials, argued that the proposed constitution serves the interests of the ruling leader, leading to concerns about authoritarianism.
The previous administration, led by Bongo for 14 years, faced significant accusations of corruption and mismanagement prior to his ousting. The existing transition government has aims of restoring governance, with public trust appearing to lean towards Oligui. Issues such as unemployment and rising costs of living continue to dominate public opinion following a recent survey, revealing citizens’ primary concerns.
The final results of the referendum will be validated by the constitutional court, as Gabon edges towards potential reforms amid a shifting political landscape. Recent surveys indicate positive public sentiment towards Oligui, who is viewed favorably as a candidate in future elections.
The situation in Gabon has evolved following a military coup that ousted former President Ali Bongo Ondimba in August 2023. The military junta has proposed a new constitution aiming to reshape the political landscape of Gabon. Notably absent from this process has been a significant presence of international observers during the electoral proceedings. Citizens are still reeling from past governance issues, including corruption under the Bongo administration, making the validity of the current referendum crucial for public trust and future governance prospects.
In summary, Gabon has approved a new constitution following a successful referendum with significant public backing. However, criticisms regarding the motivations behind the referendum persist, as many citizens express concerns over potential authoritarianism. The transitional government has pledged to restore civilian rule while maintaining a watchful eye on key issues such as unemployment and governance concerns. As Gabon moves forward, the constitutional court’s final decision on the referendum results will hold significant implications for the nation’s political future.
Original Source: www.tiogapublishing.com
