Gabon’s military regime reported that 91.8% of voters backed a new constitution in a recent referendum aimed at reforming governance. The proposed constitution limits presidential terms and excludes non-Gabonese candidates, disqualifying former president Ali Bongo. Despite an official turnout of 53.54% and a lack of significant incidents during the voting, criticisms of propaganda and potential authoritarianism persist as the nation navigates its political transformation.
Gabon’s military leaders have reported that a new constitution has received overwhelming approval through a recent referendum, signifying a pivotal moment for the oil-rich nation. Approximately 860,000 registered voters participated, encouraged by government outreach via television, radio, and social media urging them to cast their ballots in favor of the proposed changes. Preliminary results indicate that 91.8% of voters supported the new constitutional framework, which emphasizes limited presidential terms and the exclusion of a prime minister,
The new provisions stipulate that presidential candidates must be Gabonese citizens, with at least one Gabonese parent, alongside a Gabonese spouse; this regulation effectively disqualifies former president Ali Bongo Ondimba and his family. Brice Oligui Nguema, the transitional president, underscored the referendum as a significant progression for the nation, expressing confidence in a transparent voting process. However, the campaign surrounding the referendum exhibited signs of governmental propaganda, leading to scrutiny from local media and citizens alike.
While voter turnout was reported at 53.54%, media outlets had previously projected a turnout of 71%. Observers noted no significant incidents during voting at 2,835 polling stations across the nation, which remained operational until 6:00 PM. The government has also extended a curfew to midnight throughout the electoral process, as stated by official channels.
Voters voiced mixed sentiments during the referendum. Some expressed support for the junta’s vision, while others criticized the constitutional proposal as a self-serving maneuver designed to perpetuate authoritarian rule. Legal professionals have raised alarms about the potential emergence of dictatorship stemming from such constitutional changes, highlighting concerns over governance and democratic integrity.
The interior ministry is optimistic about the referendum’s execution, having invited international observers to ensure transparency and facilitate public trust. Despite widespread concerns over unemployment and living conditions, recent surveys indicate that a significant portion of the populace feels positively about the direction of the nation under transitional leadership. As the constitutional court prepares to announce the final results, public sentiment remains a crucial factor in Gabon’s political landscape.
The ongoing political transition in Gabon follows a military coup in August 2022 that resulted in the ousting of President Ali Bongo Ondimba, who had been in power for 14 years. The junta’s proposed constitution seeks to redefine governance methods, limit presidential terms, and implement new rules surrounding candidate eligibility. This significant political shift reflects a response to public demands for greater accountability and reduced corruption, as previous administrations had faced allegations of mismanagement.
The overwhelming approval of the new constitution in Gabon marks a critical development amid a transition from military rule to a more democratic structure. While the junta’s efforts to enact reform are promising, concerns surrounding authoritarian tendencies and the transparency of the voting process remain prevalent. The forthcoming decisions by the constitutional court will be pivotal in shaping Gabon’s political future, with public sentiment playing an essential role in the nation’s governance moving forward.
Original Source: www.tiogapublishing.com
