Gabon’s New Constitution Approved Amidst Controversy and Hope for Change
Gabon’s military rulers have announced that provisional results show 91.8 percent of voters approved a new constitution, setting a term limit for the presidency and eliminating dynastic succession. However, voter turnout was only 53.54 percent amid concerns about transparency and potential authoritarianism, particularly following a coup that ousted former president Ali Bongo. Many citizens remain hopeful for positive change, despite ongoing challenges such as unemployment and rising costs.
Gabon’s military rulers reported that the new constitution was overwhelmingly approved in a recent referendum, with provisional results indicating 91.8 percent support from voters. This marks a significant moment for the oil-rich nation, as it signals a new governance framework following a coup in August 2022, in which the junta came to power. An estimated 860,000 registered voters participated in the referendum, with an emphasis placed on making their ballot count.
The new constitution stipulates that presidential candidates must be solely Gabonese, including at least one Gabon-born parent and a Gabonese spouse. This requirement disqualifies former President Ali Bongo Ondimba, who is married to a French national. The transitional president, Brice Oligui Nguema, described the referendum as a “great step forward” for Gabon, reflecting the junta’s agenda.
Despite the official call for participation, voter turnout was reported at 53.54 percent, below earlier estimates. Polling stations remained open until 6:00 pm without major incidents reported. The junta has extended a night curfew throughout the electoral process, taking additional measures to ensure transparency in the voting.
This referendum has raised concerns about the potential for authoritarianism, as critics argue that the constitution appears designed to facilitate the junta’s continued grip on power. Nathalie Badzoko, a civil servant, expressed confidence in the junta, noting she planned to vote ‘yes’ even without a thorough understanding of the 173 articles within the proposal.
International observers were not present during the recent elections, unlike the presidential election in August 2023, leading to skepticism about the electoral process. Following the coup, allegations of corruption and poor governance targeted the previous regime, raising questions about the effectiveness and intentions of the current leadership.
An Afrobarometer survey indicated that nearly 87 percent of respondents believe the country is improving, although significant concerns remain regarding unemployment, health, and rising living costs. The transitional president, Oligui, was identified as a preferred candidate for any forthcoming elections, demonstrating popular support amidst ongoing uncertainty in the nation’s political landscape.
The context surrounding the new constitutional referendum in Gabon is rooted in a recent military coup that ousted long-time president Ali Bongo Ondimba. Following the coup, the transitional government, led by General Brice Oligui Nguema, is seeking to redefine the political landscape with this new constitution aimed at reducing the likelihood of dynastic rule and establishing clearer guidelines for presidential succession. This referendum represents a significant shift in Gabon’s governance, with major implications for future elections and political stability in the region.
The approval of Gabon’s new constitution illustrates a pivotal moment in the nation’s governance following a military coup. While the junta claims widespread support and seeks to implement reforms, concerns about authoritarianism and transparency remain. The constitutional changes could impact the political landscape significantly, particularly for the upcoming presidential elections, amidst public anxieties regarding economic issues and previous governmental corruption.
Original Source: www.tiogapublishing.com
