Gabon’s Referendum Results Show Strong Support for New Constitution

Gabon’s military rulers announced provisional results showing that 91.8% of voters supported a new constitution, marking a significant shift for the nation. With a voter turnout of 53.54%, the changes aim to restrict presidential terms and eliminate the prime minister’s role, raising concerns about potential authoritarianism under the junta that came to power via a coup.

Gabon’s military government has announced that its proposed new constitution has received strong approval in a recent referendum, with provisional results indicating that 91.8% of voters supported the changes. This marks a significant transformation for the oil-rich nation. The 860,000 registered voters participated amidst extensive government campaigns urging participation. According to the Ministry of Interior, the voter turnout stood at 53.54%, a figure lower than previous expectations. Despite this, no serious incidents were reported during the voting process held across 2,835 polling stations, which remained open until 6:00 PM.

The new constitution introduces various notable changes, including limiting presidential terms to a maximum of two seven-year periods, eliminating the position of prime minister, and ensuring that presidential candidates are only Gabonese citizens. This provision would disqualify the former president, Ali Bongo Ondimba, whose presidency ended with a military coup last year. The transitional president, Brice Oligui Nguema, described the referendum as a “great step forward” for Gabon and expressed hope for electoral integrity going forward.

Prominent issues have been raised regarding the fairness of the referendum campaign, particularly with the extensive presence of pro-junta propaganda urging a “yes” vote. Observers, including local citizens, voiced concerns about the potential for the new constitution to entrench dictatorial powers rather than democratizing governance. Nathalie Badzoko, a civil servant, admitted to supporting the constitution without fully understanding its extensive provisions. Critics, including lawyer Marlene Fabienne Essola Efountame, warned that the proposals appear to favor the current junta, enabling strongman governance.

The political landscape in Gabon has been tumultuous following a military coup in August of the previous year, which overthrew former President Ali Bongo Ondimba amid widespread allegations of corruption and electoral fraud. This coup represented a significant shift in the nation’s governance, as a military junta, affected by these past grievances, seeks to establish a new constitutional framework intended to promote transparency and democratic values. The proposed changes emerge amidst extensive verification of governance systems and a population eager for improvement in living conditions, underscored by high levels of unemployment and dissatisfaction with previous administrations.

In conclusion, the initial results of Gabon’s referendum on a new constitution reflect overwhelming support despite low voter turnout. Proponents tout it as a step toward stability, while critics express concerns about the potential for authoritarian governance under the current military junta. The full impact of these constitutional changes will become clearer following the final tally and their implementation. As Gabon transitions, the international community will closely monitor developments regarding democracy and governance.

Original Source: www.tiogapublishing.com