Gabon Approval of New Constitution Reflects Political Shift Amid Controversy
Gabon has reported that 91.8 percent of voters supported a new constitution in a recent referendum, with a voter turnout of 53.54 percent. The new constitutional framework includes a two-term limit for the presidency and disqualifies dynastic leadership. Critics express concerns over the potential for dictatorship under the current military regime, which came to power after a coup in 2022.
Gabon has announced preliminary results from its recent referendum on a new constitution, revealing that an overwhelming majority of voters supported the proposal. The military government, which assumed power following a coup last year, reported that 91.8 percent of the estimated 860,000 registered voters endorsed the new constitutional framework, which restricts the presidency to a maximum of two seven-year terms and prohibits dynastic succession of power. Voter turnout was reported at 53.54 percent, lower than earlier projections, amidst a highly controlled campaign environment dominated by government messaging urging support for the reform.
The proposed constitution aims to ensure that presidential candidates are solely Gabonese citizens with at least one Gabonese parent and a Gabonese spouse, which effectively disqualifies former President Ali Bongo Ondimba and his descendants. Brice Oligui Nguema, the transitional president and head of the junta, described the referendum as a significant advancement for Gabon as he cast his vote at a local polling place, emphasizing the transparency of the electoral process.
Despite the government’s heavy promotion of the constitutional changes, critics voiced concerns that the new proposals could perpetuate a dictatorial regime, alleging the constitution has been tailored to benefit the current military leadership. Legal expert Marlene Fabienne Essola Efountame articulated these concerns, asserting, “We are creating a dictator who designs the constitution for himself.”
The referendum process reportedly occurred without notable incidents, and the military enforced security across over 2,800 polling stations nationwide. The interior ministry highlighted its commitment to ensuring a transparent referendum, unlike the contentious presidential election of August 2023, which was marred by accusations of corruption and fraud. Responses from an Afrobarometer survey indicate a prevailing optimism among citizens regarding national direction, although economic concerns persist.
The recent political developments in Gabon stem from a coup that occurred in August 2022, leading to the current military regime’s efforts to institute significant constitutional reforms. The new constitution, which has been submitted to a referendum, is designed to reshape the political landscape by introducing term limits for the presidency and eliminating the possibility of dynastic rule. Given the backdrop of the previous administration’s allegations of corruption, these proposals have sparked both support and opposition among the populace.
The approval of the new constitution in Gabon, as indicated by the preliminary results, marks a crucial juncture in the nation’s governance. While the military junta touts the reforms as a pathway to a more transparent and democratic future, critics warn that the modifications may entrench authoritarian practices. The upcoming final results and the political climate leading to the scheduled presidential election in 2025 will be pivotal in determining the direction of Gabon’s political landscape.
Original Source: www.tiogapublishing.com
