Gabon’s New Constitution Receives Overwhelming Support in Recent Referendum

Gabon’s military rulers announced substantial approval for a new constitution, with provisional results showing 91.8 percent support in a referendum. Key changes include a limit of two seven-year presidential terms, disqualification of foreign spouses for presidential candidates, and increased voter turnout concerns. The transitional president endorsed the referendum as a positive step, though critics caution against potential dictatorial governance.

Gabon’s military authorities announced that their newly proposed constitution received substantial approval in a recent referendum, reported as 91.8 percent in provisional results made public by the Committee for the Transition and Restoration of Institutions (CTRI). This development is pivotal for the oil-rich nation, introducing a two-term limit for the presidency, the elimination of a prime ministerial position, and barring dynastic succession in leadership roles.

The referendum saw approximately 860,000 registered voters respond to extensive promotional efforts from the junta on various media platforms urging participation in the vote. The turnout rate was reported at 53.54 percent, a figure lower than previous estimates, amidst an atmosphere controlled by government messaging favoring a ‘yes’ vote. Voting was conducted smoothly across 2,835 polling stations, with no significant disturbances recorded during the process.

The new constitutional framework stipulates that presidential candidates must have Gabonese nationality, a Gabonese parent, and a Gabonese spouse, effectively disqualifying former President Ali Bongo Ondimba. The transitional president, Brice Oligui Nguema, characterized the referendum as a progressive milestone and expressed confidence in a transparent voting process, although critics have raised concerns about potential authoritarianism stemming from the new regulations.

Amidst military oversight, voters expressed mixed sentiments toward the junta and the referendum itself. For instance, Nathalie Badzoko, a civil servant, shared her support while acknowledging she had not fully comprehended the constitutional text. Detractors have claimed the proposed changes serve primarily to benefit the current leadership, suggesting that such reforms might lead to dictatorial governance.

The government has reassured voters regarding the transparency of the referendum process, indicating it invited international observers for oversight, a departure from the previous election. A recent survey indicates a positive public perception, with around 87 percent believing the nation is heading in the right direction, although substantial concerns regarding unemployment and other socio-economic issues persist.

The recent referendum on Gabon’s new constitution follows a military coup that overthrew the longtime ruler, Ali Bongo Ondimba, who previously held power for 14 years. The military junta, having taken over in August, deemed the new constitution necessary to redefine political governance in the nation. The proposed constitution includes significant changes such as term limits for presidents and eligibility requirements aimed at preventing foreign influence in leadership positions. Amidst these changes, public sentiment appears split, with a substantial proportion of the population supporting the constitutional shift despite fears of potential authoritarian practices.

In conclusion, the provisional results of Gabon’s constitutional referendum indicate overwhelming support from voters amidst an environment characterized by military influence. While the proposed constitutional changes aim to limit presidential power and redefine eligibility, concerns linger over the true intentions behind these alterations, with critics warning that they may solidify authoritarian governance. The final results will be announced by the constitutional court, marking a significant moment in Gabon’s political landscape as it transitions under military leadership.

Original Source: www.tiogapublishing.com