Gabon’s Ruling Junta Calls Constitutional Referendum a Historic Turning Point

Gabon’s ruling junta organized a referendum for a new constitution following a coup that ended Bongo family rule. Authorities encouraged participation among 860,000 voters, with polling stations open for ten hours. Transitional President General Brice Oligui Nguema highlighted the historical significance of the vote.

On Saturday, Gabon conducted a pivotal referendum on a proposed new constitution, which the ruling military junta heralded as a significant turning point for the nation. This vote occurred in the aftermath of a coup that ousted the Bongo family, which had maintained a tight grip on power since 1967. Authorities urged the country’s 860,000 registered voters through various media platforms to participate decisively in the referendum, either casting a green ballot for “yes” or a red one for “no.” Polling in the capital city of Libreville faced delays, particularly at the Lycee Leon M’Ba school, where officials were still distributing ballots as preliminary voting commenced at 7:00 AM. The elections, taking place across 2,835 polling stations, are slated to conclude at 6:00 PM. Transitional President General Brice Oligui Nguema emphasized the historic significance of the moment on social media, seeking to inspire voter engagement during this crucial juncture.

Gabon has been under the control of the Bongo family for over five decades, making the recent military coup a significant shift in the nation’s political landscape. The referendum on the new constitution is presented not only as a legal transformation but also as an opportunity for the populace to reconnect with governance following years of autocratic rule. The junta’s emphasis on high voter turnout reflects their intent to legitimize the new political order and engage citizens in shaping the future of Gabon.

The referendum in Gabon symbolizes a critical juncture for a nation long dominated by the Bongo dynasty. With active encouragement for voter participation, the junta aims to establish a new constitutional framework that represents a departure from previous governance. Ultimately, the success of this effort will hinge on the engagement and response of the electorate, shaping the future trajectory of Gabonese politics.

Original Source: www.scmp.com