Gabonese Voters Overwhelmingly Approve New Constitution in Referendum

Gabon’s military rulers reported that 91.8% of voters supported a new constitution in a recent referendum, with a turnout of 53.54%. The constitution seeks to enforce term limits on the presidency and exclude certain individuals from candidacy. Meanwhile, concerns about the transparency of the voting process and the military’s influence persist.

Gabon’s military authorities announced on Sunday that the new constitution proposed in a recent referendum has been overwhelmingly approved by voters. The initial results indicate that 91.8 percent of the electorate backed the constitutional changes. This plebiscite, involving approximately 860,000 registered voters, was characterized by an extensive campaign encouraging participation, emphasizing the significance of casting one’s vote.

The political landscape in Gabon has been tumultuous following a coup last August that ousted former President Ali Bongo Ondimba. The junta, now led by Transitional President Brice Oligui Nguema, organized this referendum as part of their stated commitment to reform. The new constitution aims to curtail presidential powers, instituting a limit of two seven-year terms and necessitating specific qualifications for presidential candidates, thereby excluding the deposed leader’s lineage from future eligibility.

The constitutional referendum in Gabon represents a significant shift in the governance of the oil-rich nation. While the junta presents this outcome as a mandate for change, concerns remain regarding the implications of the new constitution and its potential to entrench authoritarian power. The junta’s control over media and public sentiment raises important questions about the authenticity of public support and the future of democratic governance in Gabon.

Original Source: www.tiogapublishing.com