Gabon Approves New Constitution in Controversial Referendum
Gabon’s military regime announced that a new constitution was approved in a referendum, with 91.8% voter support. The constitution limits the presidency to two seven-year terms and eliminates the role of prime minister. Voter turnout was reported at 53.54%, lower than prior estimates. Critics argue the proposals could strengthen authoritarian rule under military leadership, with public concern over governance and economic issues persisting.
Gabon’s military leaders reported that a new constitution was overwhelmingly approved in a referendum, as indicated by provisional results published on Sunday. This initiative, which aims to establish a fresh governance framework in the oil-rich nation, was marked by significant media campaigns urging the estimated 860,000 registered voters to participate in the electoral process. Voters were presented with a green ballot for ‘yes’ or a red ballot for ‘no’.
The proposed constitution outlines a presidential system limiting the head of state to a maximum of two seven-year terms, eliminates the position of prime minister, and prohibits any hereditary transfer of power. According to the Committee for the Transition and Restoration of Institutions (CTRI), 91.8 percent of voters supported the constitution, though voter turnout was reported at 53.54 percent, which was lower than earlier estimates of 71 percent.
The voting process, which occurred at 2,835 polling stations, reported no significant incidents under the surveillance of military personnel. A government decree extended a nighttime curfew during the election period, indicating a tight state of control. The referendum is significant for Gabon, especially as it followed a coup d’état in August 2022.
Key provisions of the new constitution stipulate that presidential candidates must be Gabonese, limiting eligibility for individuals like former President Ali Bongo Ondimba, who is married to a foreign national. Transitional President Brice Oligui Nguema articulated the importance of the referendum, noting it as a progressive move for the nation while downplaying associations with ongoing military governance.
Media scrutiny highlighted the extensive promotional campaigns led by the junta and raised concerns about whether the referendum was more a reflection of political strategy than civic participation. Voters expressed mixed sentiments, with some supporting the junta’s propositions despite not fully understanding the 173 articles of the new constitution.
Critics voiced apprehension about the perceived self-serving nature of the constitution, arguing it paves the way for authoritarianism. The previous regime retained significant control through nepotism and alleged corruption which culminated in the ousting of Bongo.
As the public voiced their opinions, issues including rampant unemployment, healthcare, and cost-of-living increases remained major concerns for Gabonese citizens. A recent Afrobarometer survey indicated a positive outlook, with nearly 87 percent believing the country is on the right path while over 46 percent expressed confidence in President Oligui, who remains a formidable candidate for the upcoming elections.
The article discusses the recent referendum in Gabon regarding a new constitution, following the military takeover in August 2022. This referendum reflects an attempt by the military rulers to restructure the government and establish a system that limits presidential terms and prevents hereditary succession. The context of the referendum highlights the political landscape in Gabon, characterized by past authoritarian rule and emerging democratic aspirations amidst concerns over military governance.
The successful passage of the new constitution in Gabon suggests a significant shift in governance, aiming to curtail the concentration of power within a single individual. While the overwhelming support reflects a desire for change, the referendum’s implementation and the military’s role in the political process raise concerns about the future of democracy in the nation. As Gabon navigates this transition, the population’s sentiments about governance, stability, and economic issues remain paramount.
Original Source: www.tiogapublishing.com
