Gabonese Referendum Yields Overwhelming Support for New Constitution

Gabon’s military authorities claim that 91.8% of voters have approved a new constitution in a referendum, marking a significant political transition in the oil-rich country. The document proposes limits on presidential terms and disqualifies foreign spouses from eligibility, amid ongoing skepticism about the military’s intentions to return to civilian rule. Public concerns regarding governance continue to rise, especially around unemployment and living costs.

Gabon’s military regime has reported that 91.8 percent of voters approved a new constitution in a recent referendum, according to provisional results released on Sunday. This outcome signals a significant transition for the oil-rich nation, as it implements measures to limit presidential power and ensure political stability. Approximately 860,000 registered voters participated amid an environment shaped by government messaging urging citizens to make their vote impactful, either by selecting a green ballot for “yes” or a red one for “no.”

The newly proposed constitution outlines a presidential framework that allows a maximum of two seven-year terms, abolishes the position of prime minister, and prevents any hereditary transfer of power. Furthermore, it stipulates that presidential candidates must be Gabonese with at least one Gabonese parent and a Gabonese spouse, effectively disqualifying former President Ali Bongo Ondimba, who married a French national. Provisional turnout rates are reported at 53.54 percent, lower than previous estimates.

The transitional president, Brice Oligui Nguema, described the referendum as a “great step forward,” affirming a commitment to return governance to civilian hands within two years, although he expressed intentions to participate in the upcoming presidential election in August 2025. Observers have raised concerns about the referendum’s campaign, arguing that official support may be blurring lines between political campaigning and legitimate electoral processes, with citizens expressing both hope and skepticism regarding the proposed changes.

While the voting process was notably calm, with polling stations remaining secure under military oversight, some citizens voiced their beliefs in the diligent governance of the junta, despite limited awareness of the specific amendments within the 173-article constitution. Detractors, including legal experts, have accused the process of facilitating a potential dictatorship, suggesting that the constitution has been structured to entrench the junta’s power rather than foster genuine democracy.

Public sentiment remains mixed, with various surveys indicating a general optimism regarding the country’s direction, despite prevalent concerns about unemployment, healthcare, and rising living costs. The final results of this referendum will be officially announced by the constitutional court, paving the way for the next chapter in Gabon’s governance.

Gabon has undergone significant political shifts since the military coup in August 2023, which ousted the long-standing presidency of Ali Bongo Ondimba. The regime has received mixed reactions from the populace, with calls for democratic reforms juxtaposed against the junta’s strategies to consolidate power through constitutional changes. This referendum marks a pivotal moment in Gabon’s political landscape, as it attempts to redefine the nature of presidential authority and limit potential dynastic successions, which have characterized previous administrations.

In summary, the preliminary results of Gabon’s referendum indicate strong support for a new constitution that seeks to reshape the political framework of the nation. Strong government influence during the campaign has raised questions regarding the legitimacy of these results and the potential entrenchment of military power. As Gabon navigates this transitional phase, the responses from both the citizens and international observers will be crucial in determining the future of governance in the country.

Original Source: www.tiogapublishing.com