Gabon Votes Overwhelmingly to Approve New Constitution Amid Controversy

Gabon has overwhelmingly approved a new constitution with 91.8% of votes supporting it, according to provisional results from a recent referendum. The new constitution limits presidential terms and disqualifies candidates without Gabonese heritage. Despite government propaganda, voter turnout was only 53.54%. The transitional government aims to establish civilian rule while addressing ongoing concerns about corruption and job security.

Following a recent referendum, Gabon’s military leadership declared that a new constitution had received substantial approval, with provisional results indicating that 91.8 percent of voters supported the change. The referendum, which involved approximately 860,000 registered voters, was heavily promoted by authorities through various media, encouraging citizens to participate in the voting process. The newly proposed constitution establishes limits on presidential terms while eliminating the position of prime minister and prohibiting hereditary succession.

Despite government propaganda dominating the campaign, turnout was reported at 53.54 percent, significantly lower than previous estimates of 71 percent. Voter participation was deemed critical, while the electoral process proceeded without major incidents across the nationwide polling stations. The junta extended a night curfew for security during the referendum period, signaling a cautious approach to governance.

The new constitution includes stipulations that presidential candidates must be Gabonese by birth with at least one Gabonese parent and a Gabonese spouse. This condition directly disqualifies former President Ali Bongo Ondimba due to his foreign marriage. Transitional President Brice Oligui Nguema praised the referendum as a significant advancement, emphasizing the transparency of the voting process and his desire to restore civilian governance after a two-year transitional period.

However, opponents express concern, viewing the constitutional proposals as self-serving measures that solidify authoritarian rule in the hands of Oligui and potentially establish a dictatorship. As citizens cast their votes, many expressed either support or skepticism regarding the political intentions behind the referendum. Citizens voiced concerns over myriad governance issues, including job losses and economic challenges, which remain significant after Bongo’s ousting due to corruption and mismanagement accusations.

The government has invited international observers to ensure the transparency of the referendum, reflecting a desire for legitimacy following previous electoral controversies. Recent surveys indicate a lack of trust in the electoral process, with a high percentage of the population feeling the country is moving in the right direction, despite pervasive concerns like unemployment and rising living costs. Oligui’s approval ratings are notably high, positioning him as a popular figure in anticipation of the upcoming presidential election.

Gabon, an oil-rich nation in Central Africa, has recently experienced significant political upheaval. Following a coup in August 2023, the military leadership undertook efforts to reshape governance, including proposing a new constitution aimed at establishing a clearer political framework. This constitution seeks to curtail excesses of power and prevent dynastic successions, which have characterized past administrations in the nation.

The significant approval of Gabon’s new constitution marks a noteworthy shift in the country’s political landscape. While the military junta positions itself as a reformer, citizens remain divided on the implications of the changes. Concerns about transparency, governance, and job security continue to affect public sentiment as the nation prepares for the upcoming electoral cycle.

Original Source: www.tiogapublishing.com