Gabon Voters Overwhelmingly Approve New Constitution in Referendum

Gabonese voters have overwhelmingly approved a new constitution in a recent referendum, with provisional results indicating 91.8% support. This constitution limits presidential terms, eliminates the prime minister’s role, and disqualifies candidates with non-Gabonese spouses from running for president. Voter turnout was reported at 53.54%. While the junta claims this marks progress, critics argue it serves to entrench their power.

Gabon’s military leaders reported that their proposed new constitution received overwhelming support in a recent referendum, according to provisional results announced on Sunday. Approximately 91.8% of voters approved the document, which introduces a presidential term limit of two seven-year terms, eliminates the role of a prime minister, and prohibits any dynastic succession within the presidency. The transitional regime, which has been in power since the August coup, promoted the referendum heavily, urging citizens to participate in the electoral process across the nation. Voter turnout was approximately 53.54%, notably lower than earlier estimates.

The new constitutional framework specifies that candidates for the presidency must be Gabonese, which disqualifies the former ruler Ali Bongo, his spouse being French, from eligibility. Transitional President Brice Oligui Nguema characterized the voting process as a “great step forward” during his visit to a polling station. Critics, however, have lambasted the proposal as a scheme to consolidate power for the junta, with claims that it meticulously caters to the regime’s interests.

Despite the absence of incidents during the voting process, the junta implemented an extended nightly curfew to maintain order. Observers found that many citizens expressed confidence in the junta while simultaneously indicating concerns regarding issues such as unemployment and governance. Following the referendum, the final results will be confirmed by the constitutional court, setting the stage for Gabon’s future political landscape.

Gabon is an oil-rich nation that has experienced significant political turmoil, including a coup last year that ousted the long-standing ruler Ali Bongo Ondimba. The military junta currently governing the country introduced a new constitution aimed at re-establishing political order and outlining fundamental governance reforms. The constitutional referendum represents a critical moment in Gabon’s political transition as it seeks to redefine the powers of the presidency and ensure national stability.

The provisional results from Gabon’s constitutional referendum indicate substantial support among voters for the new governance framework proposed by the military junta. While the overwhelming approval suggests a desire for change and stability, concerns about the motivations behind the constitutional changes and the implications for future governance remain prevalent among critics. As Gabon approaches the next presidential election, the new constitutional landscape will play a pivotal role in shaping the country’s political trajectory.

Original Source: www.tiogapublishing.com