Gabon’s military rulers reported that a new constitution received 91.8% approval from provisional referendum results. The constitution aims to impose term limits on the presidency and eliminate dynastic succession. Voter turnout was reported at 53.54%, lower than expected, amid concerns over transparency and accountability in the electoral process.
Gabon’s military rulers announced that provisional results from a referendum indicated overwhelming support for a new constitution, marking a significant milestone for the resource-rich African nation. Approximately 860,000 registered voters were urged by authorities across various media to participate actively in the voting process, with ballots categorized as green for ‘yes’ and red for ‘no.’
The new constitution outlines a limited presidency of up to two consecutive seven-year terms, abolishing the role of prime minister and the possibility of dynastic succession. Provisional results revealed that 91.8 percent of voters endorsed the constitution, according to a statement by the Committee for the Transition and Restoration of Institutions (CTRI).
Despite the junta’s extensive propaganda campaign, local media indicated that voter turnout would be a crucial factor in the referendum’s legitimacy. The interior ministry reported a turnout rate of 53.54 percent, which was lower than the 71 percent previously reported by Gabon TV.
Voting occurred without major issues at 2,835 polling stations nationwide, which remained open until 6:00 PM. To ensure security, the junta extended a curfew by two hours to midnight throughout the electoral process, as announced during a state television broadcast.
The proposed constitution mandates that presidential candidates must be exclusively Gabonese and have at least one Gabon-born parent, as well as a Gabonese spouse. This stipulation effectively disqualifies former leader Ali Bongo Ondimba, whose spouse is French, alongside his children.
Transitional President Brice Oligui Nguema described the referendum as a significant advancement while participating in the electoral process. Dressed in civilian attire, he affirmed, “All Gabonese are coming to vote in a transparent fashion”.
Billboards promoting a ‘yes’ vote featuring the junta leader’s image have raised questions about the referendum’s integrity, with some media suggesting it resembles a presidential campaign.
Registered voters queued to cast their ballots, monitored closely by soldiers responsible for security. Amidst this atmosphere, Nathalie Badzoko, a civil servant, expressed her faith in the junta, stating her support for a ‘yes’ vote, despite admitting she had not thoroughly reviewed the 173 article document.
Critics of the constitution assert it is designed to solidify authoritarian rule. Lawyer Marlene Fabienne Essola Efountame protested, “We are creating a dictator who designs the constitution for himself.” This critique follows Bongo’s removal after his 14-year presidency, which ended unceremoniously following accusations of fraudulent electoral practices.
Accusations of corruption and poor governance plagued the former Bongo regime, prompting questions regarding public trust in the electoral process. The interior ministry claimed extensive measures were taken to ensure transparency, which included inviting international observers—a departure from the previous election’s lack of oversight.
Public sentiment indicates that nearly 87 percent of those surveyed believed the nation is progressing positively. However, concerns regarding unemployment, health issues, and rising living costs continue to dominate public discourse. Additionally, more than 46 percent of citizens expressed significant confidence in President Oligui, who is positioned as a frontrunner in the anticipated August 2025 presidential election.
Gabon, known for its oil wealth, has experienced shifts in governance following the military coup in August 2023. The proposed constitutional changes are intended to reshape the political landscape by limiting presidential terms and establishing clear eligibility criteria for candidates. The ongoing political transition aims to restore civilian rule while grappling with public concerns about governance, corruption, and employment.
The recent referendum in Gabon suggested strong support for a new constitution, despite reports of media manipulation and questionable electoral practices. The significant changes proposed aim to redefine presidential eligibility and limit terms. While the junta asserts that these reforms are a step toward democracy, critics argue they may entrench authoritarianism, potentially paving the way for a future dictator.
Original Source: www.tiogapublishing.com
