Gabonese voters approved a new constitution with 91.8% in a recent referendum, following a military coup that ousted President Ali Bongo. Interim President Nguema emphasized the government’s commitment to democracy, with plans for a transition by summer 2025. The constitution institutes a two-term limit for the presidency but does not bar Nguema from running, causing concern among analysts.
Gabonese voters overwhelmingly endorsed a new constitution with a remarkable 91.8 percent approval rate in a recent referendum, as stated by Minister Hermann Immongault on state television. The voter turnout was reported at approximately 53.5 percent. Interim President General Brice Oligui Nguema has characterized this electoral outcome as affirming the government’s commitment to a progressive democratic transition, which is provisionally set for the summer of 2025. This change follows a coup in August 2022, which saw the removal of President Ali Bongo, whose administration faced criticism for mismanagement of Gabon’s oil resources, contributing to widespread poverty among the populace. The new constitution establishes a two-term limit for the presidency, each term to last seven years, eliminates the prime ministerial role, and stipulates that French shall remain Gabon’s working language. Concerns have arisen regarding General Nguema’s potential candidacy, as the new framework does not explicitly prevent him from seeking presidential office.
The approval of the new constitution signals a significant political shift in Gabon following a military coup that led to the ousting of President Ali Bongo, who was heavily criticized for his governance. The constitutional change is intended to transition Gabon toward a more democratic framework, with specific stipulations including presidential term limits. However, lingering doubts regarding the junta’s long-term aspirations have sparked discussions among commentators about the future of democracy in the country, particularly concerning the military leadership’s role in the upcoming political landscape.
In summary, the Gabonese referendum result marks a crucial moment in the nation’s political trajectory, with overwhelming support for a new constitution intended to promote democratic governance. Although there is optimism surrounding this progress, the absence of restrictions on the interim president’s eligibility raises critical questions about the junta’s commitment to genuine democratic reforms. Observers will be keen to see how these developments unfold leading up to the anticipated political transition in 2025.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
