Gabonese Voters Approve New Constitution Signifying Shift Towards Democracy

Gabonese voters have overwhelmingly approved a new constitution with 91.8% support, as reported by Interior Minister Hermann Immongault, in a referendum with a turnout of 53.5%. The constitution aims to facilitate a transition to democratic rule, featuring term limits for the presidency while not barring the current interim president, General Brice Oligui Nguema, from running in the future.

The Gabonese electorate has overwhelmingly endorsed a new constitution, with 91.8 percent voting in favor, as announced by Interior Minister Hermann Immongault. The referendum, which took place over the weekend, witnessed an estimated voter turnout of 53.5 percent. Interim President General Brice Oligui Nguema characterized the vote as an affirmation of the government’s intent to advance toward democratic governance, with plans for this transition tentatively set for the summer of 2025. The military junta, which came to power following a coup in August of last year, has garnered significant public support for ousting former President Ali Bongo, whose administration was criticized for mismanaging Gabon’s oil resources, leading to economic stagnation and widespread poverty. The newly proposed constitution establishes a two-term limit for the presidency, each term lasting seven years, abolishes the position of prime minister, and maintains French as the nation’s official language. However, the constitution does not prevent General Nguema from seeking the presidency himself, raising concerns among critics regarding the junta’s intentions regarding power consolidation.

Gabon has experienced significant political upheaval following a coup that ousted President Ali Bongo in August of last year. The coup was largely welcomed by the Gabonese populace, who had become disillusioned with Bongo’s leadership, particularly concerning the management of the country’s oil wealth, which has resulted in economic challenges and high poverty rates. In this context, the newly proposed constitution is seen as a potential first step toward reestablishing democratic governance, with a commitment to a structured political framework that includes term limits for presidency and the elimination of the prime ministerial role.

In summary, the recent referendum in Gabon suggests strong public support for the newly proposed constitution, aimed at fostering a path toward democracy. While the high approval rate indicates optimism for political reform, the inclusion of provisions that do not preclude the current junta leader from seeking the presidency poses questions regarding the future political landscape in Gabon. The international community will likely observe the developments leading to the potentially scheduled democratic transition in 2025.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com