Gabon’s Referendum Shows Overwhelming Support for New Constitution

Provisional results from Gabon’s referendum indicate overwhelming approval for a new constitution, with 91.8 percent voting in favor. The constitution proposes a presidential limit of two seven-year terms and disqualifies candidates who do not meet Gabonese lineage requirements. While the process has been proclaimed transparent by authorities, critics caution against the potential for dictatorial governance emerging from the changes.

Gabon’s military regime announced that a new constitution has received overwhelming support from voters, based on provisional referendum results released on Sunday. Approximately 860,000 registered voters participated, with authorities urging them through various media to make their voices heard. The proposed constitution outlines a presidency limited to two seven-year terms, eliminates the prime minister role, and prohibits dynastic succession.

The Committee for the Transition and Restoration of Institutions (CTRI) reported that 91.8 percent voted in favor of the new charter, despite the junta’s prior dominance of the campaign narrative. Voter turnout was officially stated at 53.54 percent, which is notably lower than previously anticipated figures. The referendum proceeded without significant unrest, with the polling stations adhering to the mandated hours.

Among the constitutional amendments is a requirement that presidential candidates must be Gabonese by birth, effectively disqualifying former President Ali Bongo Ondimba. Transitional President Brice Oligui Nguema characterized the referendum as a “great step forward” while acknowledging the need for transparency. Critics, however, express concern that the new constitution is crafted to consolidate power around the current military leadership.

Voting proceeded under military supervision, which many citizens accepted, expressing trust in the process. Various citizens voiced their opinions about the junta’s governance, with a significant number indicating that they believe the country is on the right path, despite ongoing concerns about employment and economic stability.

As for the timeline, the final voting results will be verified by the constitutional court, while the regime has assured transparency in the electoral process, aiming to rebuild trust with the populace.

The political landscape in Gabon has been tumultuous following the military coup in August 2023, which resulted in the ousting of long-standing President Ali Bongo Ondimba. The interim military government aims to establish a new constitutional framework to redefine governance and restore legitimacy among citizens. Promoting a new constitution is seen as critical for ensuring a smooth transition back to civilian rule and addressing pervasive issues such as corruption and poor governance under the previous regime. The public response to this referendum may significantly influence the future political trajectory of Gabon.

In summary, the early referendum results indicate that the new constitution proposed by Gabon’s military rulers has garnered substantial public support, potentially reshaping the governance framework of the nation. However, skepticism persists regarding the true democratic intent behind these constitutional changes, and the regime’s commitment to a genuine transition back to civilian rule remains to be seen. With the final results pending, the implications of this referendum extend beyond mere constitutional amendments, as it reflects the hopes and concerns of the Gabonese people in the wake of political upheaval.

Original Source: www.tiogapublishing.com