Gabon’s military junta declared that an overwhelming majority of voters approved a new constitution, promoting a two-term presidency, among other reforms, while voter turnout was reported below earlier expectations. The proposed changes exclude former President Ali Bongo Ondimba from candidacy and intend to enhance governance transparency amidst ongoing criticism. Transitional President Brice Oligui Nguema expressed confidence in the electoral process, indicating a possible path towards restoring civilian rule.
Gabon’s military rulers announced that a new constitution has been overwhelmingly supported in a recent referendum, as per provisional results disclosed on Sunday. Approximately 860,000 registered voters were urged by authorities through various media to participate in the voting process, distinguishing between a green ballot for “yes” and a red one for “no.”
The proposed constitution outlines a presidency limited to two seven-year terms, eliminates the role of a prime minister, and restricts succession of power within dynasties. According to the Committee for the Transition and Restoration of Institutions (CTRI), provisional results indicate that 91.8 percent of voters favored the new constitution.
The official campaign featured significant propaganda from the junta, which took control in August of the previous year. Concerns were raised regarding voter turnout, which the interior ministry reported at 53.54 percent, lower than an earlier estimate of 71 percent by a local broadcaster. No significant voting disrupts were reported across the 2,835 polling stations nationwide.
Adaptations in the new constitution also require candidates for the presidency to be solely Gabonese, stipulating that they must have at least one Gabon-born parent and a Gabonese spouse. This condition removes former President Ali Bongo Ondimba from future candidacy, as he is married to a foreign national.
Transitional President Brice Oligui Nguema hailed the referendum as a significant advancement while expressing transparency in the voting process. Oligui has indicated a desire to restore civilian rule within two years, though he is anticipated as a possible candidate for the presidential election scheduled for August 2025, amidst a heavy campaign presence supporting him.
Voter lines were observed at polling places, monitored by military personnel to maintain security. Some voters expressed support for the junta’s proposed changes, though one voter admitted having not studied the document thoroughly. Critics argue that the constitution serves only to entrench authoritarian rule.
The interior ministry emphasized its commitment to ensuring a transparent electoral process, even inviting international observers who previously did not attend the presidential election in August 2023. Amid ongoing concerns for robust governance, surveys indicate a significant portion of the population is hopeful about the country’s trajectory, despite widespread concerns about unemployment and living costs.
The recent referendum in Gabon represents a pivotal moment in the country’s governance structure, following a military coup replacing long-standing leadership. The proposed constitutional changes aim not only to reform the presidency but also to address national stability and governance transparency following past allegations of corruption and mismanagement under the previous regime. This referendum signifies an attempt by military leaders to solidify their legitimacy and potentially navigate a transition back to civilian rule. The constitutional changes have drawn both support from voters seeking change and criticism from opponents wary of further entrenching authoritarianism. Comments and observations from voters reflect a division in public perception regarding the junta’s intentions and the potential impact on Gabon’s political landscape.
In conclusion, the overwhelming support for Gabon’s new constitution as announced by military authorities indicates a significant shift in the nation’s governance, albeit amidst concerns of authoritarianism. As the transitional regime moves forward, the implications of these reforms will shape the future political scenario, with a scheduled presidential election approaching. Observers will watch closely how these changes affect civic trust and the possibility of a genuine return to civilian-led governance in Gabon.
Original Source: www.tiogapublishing.com
