Gabonese voters have approved a new constitution with 91.8 percent support in a recent referendum. The turnout was 53.5 percent, signaling a commitment to democratic transition under interim president General Brice Oligui Nguema. The constitution includes a two-term limit for the presidency and abolishes the prime minister role but allows Nguema to run for president, raising concerns about the junta’s long-term ambitions.
On Sunday, the Gabonese interior minister announced that voters approved a new constitution with an overwhelming 91.8 percent in favor, following a recent referendum. Minister Hermann Immongault indicated that the voter turnout was approximately 53.5 percent. General Brice Oligui Nguema, the interim president, characterized the vote as a commitment to a democratic transition, which is tentatively set for summer 2025. The junta ascended to power after a coup in August 2022, which was welcomed by many citizens dissatisfied with President Ali Bongo’s leadership. His administration had faced criticism for ineffective management of Gabon’s oil resources, contributing to economic stagnation and widespread poverty among the populace. The newly proposed constitution includes a two-term limit for the presidency, each term being seven years. It also abolishes the role of prime minister and designates French as Gabon’s official working language. However, the draft constitution does not prevent Nguema from potentially running for the presidency, which has elicited apprehension among some analysts regarding the junta’s long-term intentions.
The recent constitutional referendum in Gabon marks a significant political development following last year’s military coup, which deposed President Ali Bongo. This transition aims to restore democratic governance, with the interim government, led by General Nguema, promising reforms conducive to such a transformation. It is crucial to understand the socio-economic context, particularly the dissatisfaction stemming from Bongo’s governance, as it has shaped public reception of the coup and subsequent constitutional changes.
The approval of Gabon’s new constitution by a significant majority reflects a public endorsement of the junta’s efforts towards democratic governance. The introduction of a presidential term limit and the constitution’s structural changes signal a shift in political power dynamics. However, the potential candidacy of interim president Nguema raises critical questions about the junta’s motives and the future of true democratic transition in Gabon.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
