Gabon’s military rulers report that voters overwhelmingly approved a new constitution in a recent referendum, with 91.8% support and a turnout of 53.54%. The constitution limits presidential terms and requires candidates to be Gabonese. Transitional President Brice Oligui Nguema hailed the vote despite criticism that it is designed to retain military power. Public concerns about unemployment and living standards persist.
Gabon’s military authorities announced that preliminary results indicate overwhelming approval of a new constitution via referendum. With an estimated 860,000 registered voters targeted by various media encouraging participation, official reports suggest a voter turnout of 53.54%. The new constitution introduces term limits, abolishes the role of prime minister, and prevents dynastic succession.
Reportedly, 91.8% of voters embraced the constitution, according to the Committee for the Transition and Restoration of Institutions (CTRI). This vote comes after the junta, which assumed power after a coup in August 2022, controlled the campaign narrative. The interior ministry’s earlier estimate of 71% turnout was revised downwards.
The new constitutional provisions also stipulate that presidential candidates must be Gabonese nationals with Gabonese spouses, disqualifying former President Ali Bongo Ondimba. Transitional President Brice Oligui Nguema characterized the referendum as a significant advancement, emphasizing transparency in the voting process.
On the polling day, voters were guarded by military personnel to secure the process, which was devoid of serious incidents. Citizens queued outside polling stations to express their preferences amid promising statements from government officials regarding the fairness of the election.
Despite the government’s assurance about the referendum’s transparency, critics of the proposed changes charge that the new constitution has been strategically formulated to enable the prevailing power to maintain control. Detractors argue such moves might encourage dictatorial tendencies under the present regime.
Public sentiment, however, remains cautiously optimistic, with an Afrobarometer survey indicating a majority of citizens believe the country is on the right track. Despite satisfaction with the transitional government, pressing concerns over unemployment and living standards continue to afflict the Gabonese populace.
Gabon has faced political upheaval, with a military junta assuming control following a coup that ousted longtime ruler Ali Bongo Ondimba. The junta’s push for a new constitution is intended to establish governance reforms, particularly set against a backdrop of accusations of corruption and mismanagement from the previous administration. This referendum marks a critical juncture in Gabon’s efforts to create a more stable political landscape while addressing profound public concerns about the economy and governance.
The approval of the new constitution may signal a pivotal shift in Gabonese governance by instituting accountability measures and term limits. Nevertheless, the perception that it primarily serves the junta’s interests raises alarms among critics who warn against potential abuses of power. As the final vote count awaits judicial confirmation, ongoing public discontent regarding economic issues remains salient in the national conversation.
Original Source: www.tiogapublishing.com
