Gabon held a referendum on a new constitution, following a coup that ended 55 years of Bongo family rule. The junta has emphasized public participation urging people to vote, noting that turnout is a crucial indicator of support for the proposed changes. General Brice Oligui Nguema marked the event as a historic moment for the nation, with reports of polling delays in Libreville signaling challenges to the voting process.
On Saturday, Gabon conducted a referendum to vote on a new constitution, which the ruling junta has hailed as a “major turning point” following the recent coup that ended the Bongo family’s 55-year grip on power. With around 860,000 registered voters, the junta has actively encouraged public participation through various media channels, urging citizens to ensure their voices are heard in this critical decision making process, whether they select a green ballot for “yes” or a red one for “no.” Voting commenced at 7:00 AM in the capital, Libreville, but reports indicated delays at several polling stations, including at the Lycee Leon M’Ba school, where ballots were still being distributed. In total, Gabon has established 2,835 polling stations that were scheduled to remain open until 6:00 PM. General Brice Oligui Nguema, the transitional President, emphasized the significance of this referendum, stating in a social media post, “We have a date with history,” alongside an image of himself participating in the voting process. As the referendum unfolds, local media have highlighted that voter turnout will be a significant indicator of public support for the junta’s proposed constitutional changes. This referendum comes at a pivotal moment for Gabon, as the nation seeks to establish a new political trajectory after decades of Bongo rule. The outcome will not only reflect the people’s will but also shape the country’s governance and future political landscape going forward.
Gabon has experienced a political upheaval following a military coup in August 2023, which ousted Ali Bongo Ondimba, who succeeded his father as president in a dynasty that lasted from 1967 until 2023. This coup has initiated a series of significant changes, including the proposal of a new constitution intended to reshape the governance of the oil-rich nation. The referendum held is viewed as a crucial step towards establishing legitimacy for the junta and altering the political framework that has persisted in Gabon for decades. The ruling leadership aims to ensure a democratic trajectory and to gain public support for their proposed reforms.
In conclusion, the constitutional referendum represents a critical juncture for Gabonese politics following the overthrow of the Bongo family rule. The ruling junta’s vigorous promotion of the vote underscores its significance as a vehicle for change in the national governance structure. Voter turnout is deemed essential in determining the support for the proposed constitution and could potentially steer the country towards a more democratic future.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
