Gabon Votes to Approve New Constitution Amid Criticism and Hope

Gabon has reportedly approved a new constitution with 91.8% voter support, eliminating the prime minister role and implementing a two-term limit for presidents. The transitional government emphasized transparency during the referendum amid critiques of potential authoritarianism. Approximately 54% voter turnout was recorded, with public sentiment showing a strong belief that the country is progressing, despite concerns over unemployment and governance.

Gabon’s military rulers announced that a newly proposed constitution has been overwhelmingly approved during a recent referendum, according to provisional results released on Sunday. This significant step marks a new chapter for the oil-dependent African nation, where approximately 860,000 registered voters faced numerous appeals from authorities across various media urging them to participate in the voting process. Voters indicated their preferences by selecting a green ballot for “yes” or a red for “no.”

The proposed constitution outlines a new presidential structure that limits future leaders to two seven-year terms, eliminates the position of prime minister, and prohibits any dynastic succession of power. The preliminary results reveal that 91.8 percent of voters supported the amendments, as reported by the Committee for the Transition and Restoration of Institutions (CTRI). Despite differing accounts on voter turnout—53.54 percent according to the interior ministry—there were no significant issues noted during the election across the 2,835 polling stations.

As polling concluded at 6 p.m., the junta extended a night curfew by two hours, citing the need for security during the elections. The new constitutional framework stipulates that all presidential candidates must be Gabonese citizens, with at least one Gabonese parent and a Gabonese spouse, thereby disqualifying former leader Ali Bongo Ondimba and his children, due to their familial connections outside the nation.

Transitional president Brice Oligui Nguema emphasized the referendum as a “great step forward” while casting his vote. He has expressed intentions to restore civilian governance following a two-year transition but has aspirations of securing the presidency in the forthcoming election scheduled for August 2025.

The populace evidenced visible engagement, forming lines outside polling locations. However, some critics, such as lawyer Marlene Fabienne Essola Efountame, argue that the new constitution is strategically crafted to support a dictatorial regime. In previous years, Bongo’s administration faced accusations of corruption and maladministration.

The transitional government insisted on transparency during the referendum process, inviting international observers, who had not been present in the August 2023 presidential election. Early surveys indicated a high level of public optimism, noting that nearly 87 percent believed the country is on the right path, with rising unemployment being the primary concern.

Gabon has recently undergone significant political changes following a military coup in August 2023, which led to the overthrow of Ali Bongo Ondimba, the long-standing president accused of extensive corruption and poor governance. The newly proposed constitution seeks to redefine the political landscape, impacting future governance structures while addressing issues like presidential limits and citizenship requirements. Amidst voter mobilization and media campaigns, the referendum is seen as an avenue for the junta to demonstrate legitimacy and the restoration of civilian rule, as Gabon navigates its future amidst economic uncertainties.

The recent referendum in Gabon regarding a new constitution has marked a pivotal shift for the nation, revealing overwhelming support from voters for reform. While the government touts success and transparency, concerns remain about the motives behind the constitutional changes and the implications for future governance, especially regarding the concentration of power. As Gabon prepares for upcoming elections and an uncertain future, public sentiment indicates a cautious optimism about potential improvements within the political framework.

Original Source: www.tiogapublishing.com