Gabon’s junta reported that 91.8 percent of voters approved a new constitution in a recent referendum, despite a voter turnout of 53.54 percent. The constitution limits presidential terms and eliminates the prime minister position. Transitional president Oligui has indicated a desire for future civilian leadership, yet critics claim the changes could empower dictatorship. Concerns over employment and governance remain prevalent among citizens, and transparency continues to be a focal point as results await validation from the constitutional court.
Gabon’s military leadership has disclosed that provisional results indicate overwhelming approval of a new constitution in a recent referendum, signifying a pivotal moment for the oil-rich nation. An estimated 860,000 registered voters were inundated with appeals from authorities via television, radio, and social media to participate and make their voices heard, selecting either a green ballot for “yes” or a red one for “no.”
The new constitutional framework introduces a limit of two seven-year terms for the presidency, eliminates the role of prime minister, and prohibits the hereditary transfer of power. The Committee for the Transition and Restoration of Institutions (CTRI) reported that 91.8 percent of those who voted supported the new constitution. However, voter turnout was reported at 53.54 percent, lower than the 71 percent initially announced by local broadcasters.
Despite heavy official propaganda from the ruling junta, no significant disruptions occurred during voting across the 2,835 polling stations, which remained open until 6:00 PM. In a move to maintain order during the electoral process, the junta extended the night curfew by two hours to midnight, as indicated by a decree broadcast on state television.
In addition, the new constitution stipulates that presidential candidates must be exclusively Gabonese, requiring candidates to have at least one Gabonese parent and a Gabonese spouse. This provision effectively disqualifies former leader Ali Bongo Ondimba and his immediate family, as he is married to a French citizen. Transitional President Brice Oligui Nguema called the referendum a “great step forward” during a visit to a polling station, dressed in civilian attire instead of his military uniform.
While Oligui assures citizens of a return to civilian rule following a two-year transitional period, his ambition to succeed in the presidential elections slated for August 2025 has been apparent. Numerous billboards featuring the general alongside calls for a “yes” vote have fueled speculation on whether the referendum resembles a campaign for his presidency.
Voting was marked by visible security measures, with soldiers guarding polling stations. Voter Nathalie Badzoko expressed her support for the junta despite her admission of not having fully examined the 173 articles of the constitution. Critics, such as lawyer Marlene Fabienne Essola Efountame, argue that the proposed changes are designed to entrench dictatorial power.
Former President Ali Bongo was overthrown shortly after a disputed election victory amid allegations from both the military and opposition of corruption and misgovernance. Concerns about employment remain paramount among citizens, further exacerbated by widespread dissatisfaction with public services and rising living costs.
The Ministry of Interior has stated that it took measures to ensure a transparent referendum, including inviting international observers who were absent during the August 2023 elections. Mathurin Bengone, a civil servant, expressed faith in the process, stating, “If our vote isn’t respected, we won’t vote again.” Results will ultimately be confirmed by the constitutional court, and surveys suggest that confidence in Oligui is significant, while public sentiment regarding the nation’s trajectory remains cautiously optimistic.
The recent referendum in Gabon comes in the wake of a military coup that ousted former President Ali Bongo Ondimba, who was in power for 14 years following his father’s lengthy regime. The attempt to introduce a new constitution reflects the junta’s efforts to reshape the political landscape after years of governance marred by accusations of corruption and misrule. This referendum is viewed as a critical step towards re-establishing public trust and legitimacy in governance amidst ongoing struggles with unemployment and socio-economic challenges.
In conclusion, the passing of the new constitution in Gabon, as revealed by provisional referendum results, marks a significant shift in the country’s political framework. While the junta claims overwhelming support, the real challenge will be ensuring genuine civic engagement and transparency as they navigate a transitional period and prepare for future elections. Public confidence remains fragile, with citizens closely monitoring the implementation of these constitutional changes and the junta’s commitments to democratic governance.
Original Source: www.tiogapublishing.com
