Provisional results from Gabon indicate that 91.8 percent of voters approved a new constitution that limits presidential terms and disqualifies non-Gabonese candidates. Amid a media-driven campaign, voter turnout was reported at 53.54 percent. Transitional President Brice Oligui Nguema hailed the referendum as a step forward, although opposition figures raised concerns about potential authoritarianism. The final results will be confirmed by the constitutional court, with the public expressing cautious optimism about the country’s governance.
Gabon’s military rulers report that an overwhelming majority of voters approved a new constitution in a recent referendum, according to preliminary results disclosed on Sunday. Approximately 860,000 registered voters were urged through extensive media campaigns to participate in the ballot, which included options marked with green for “yes” and red for “no.” The newly proposed constitution envisions a presidential system limited to two seven-year terms, eliminating the role of prime minister and prohibiting the transfer of power through dynastic succession.
Preliminary findings indicated that 91.8 percent of voters supported the new constitution, as stated by the Committee for the Transition and Restoration of Institutions (CTRI). The campaign was significantly influenced by the ruling junta that assumed control following an August 2022 coup. Local media emphasized the importance of voter turnout, which was reported at 53.54 percent according to the Ministry of the Interior, a figure lower than the 71 percent previously claimed by Gabon TV.
Voting proceeded smoothly across 2,835 polling stations nationwide, which remained open until 6:00 PM without any serious disturbances reported. The junta extended a night curfew by two hours to midnight for the duration of the electoral process. The new constitution stipulates that presidential candidates must be Gabonese by birth, with at least one parent as a citizen and a Gabonese spouse, thereby disqualifying former leader Ali Bongo Ondimba and his family.
Transitional President Brice Oligui Nguema referred to the referendum as a significant advancement for the nation as he cast his vote in Libreville. He expressed confidence in the electorate’s transparent participation in the voting process. Oligui has signaled his desire to return power to civilians following a two-year transitional period, yet he shows ambition to contest in the upcoming presidential election slated for August 2025.
Gabonese citizens formed queues at polling stations, watched over by soldiers ensuring electoral security. Some voters expressed support for the junta’s objectives, though concerns remained about the constitution’s potential to consolidate power. Critiques from opposition members suggested that the ongoing political restructuring might create a dictatorial regime. Ali Bongo’s previous administration had faced accusations of corruption and mismanagement during his 14-year tenure.
The Ministry of the Interior asserted its commitment to ensuring a transparent electoral process, having invited international observers who were absent from the August 2023 presidential elections. A local respondent expressed trust in the electoral integrity, emphasizing a willingness to refrain from future voting if their votes were disregarded. The final results are anticipated to be announced by the constitutional court, with positive public sentiment emerging from recent surveys regarding the nation’s direction and confidence in the transitional leader.
The recent constitutional referendum in Gabon is indicative of a significant political shift following the military coup that ousted former President Ali Bongo Ondimba. The junta has introduced a new constitution aimed at stabilizing the political landscape by establishing a framework that limits presidential power and discourages dynastic rule. The move has sparked both support and skepticism among citizens regarding the intentions of the military rulers. As Gabon navigates through this transition, the questions surrounding governance, electoral integrity, and public trust remain pivotal to the country’s future.
The overwhelming support for Gabon’s new constitution, as reported by provisional results, marks a critical moment in the nation’s political evolution. While the junta has aimed to establish a framework for more transparent governance, concerns about potential authoritarianism linger amid the populace. The upcoming presidential elections in 2025 will be a definitive test of this newly laid foundation and whether the transition to civilian governance will truly reflect the aspirations of the Gabonese people.
Original Source: www.tiogapublishing.com
