Gabon Votes on New Constitution in Referendum Following Military Coup
Gabon is voting in a referendum to consider a new constitution that seeks to transition towards democratic governance after a military coup ousted President Ali Bongo Ondimba. The proposed charter includes presidential term limits and other significant reforms. Transitional leader General Brice Oligui Nguema advocates for the new constitution as a step towards a new democratic direction, with the outcome expected to influence Gabon’s political landscape significantly.
Gabon is undergoing a pivotal moment as citizens participate in a referendum to decide whether to adopt a new constitution following the military coup that ousted President Ali Bongo Ondimba last year, ending a lengthy period of Bongo family rule. Approximately 860,000 registered voters are anticipated to cast their ballots on the proposed charter, which introduces significant reforms, including presidential term limits aimed at preventing dynastic governance. General Brice Oligui Nguema, the transitional leader who orchestrated the coup, is advocating for support of the charter, which he posits reflects the military government’s intent to transition the country towards democratic governance. The constitutional changes would establish a two-term limit for the presidency and eliminate the role of prime minister, along with ensuring that family members cannot succeed a sitting president. Voting commenced amidst some logistical setbacks, and results are expected to be declared by the constitutional court subsequently.
The political landscape in Gabon has shifted dramatically following the military coup in August 2023, which ousted long-time president Ali Bongo Ondimba, who had held power since 2009 after succeeding his father. The coup was a reaction to allegations of electoral fraud in the recent elections and has been interpreted as a response to the discontent within the populace, particularly concerning widespread unemployment and wealth disparity. The proposed new constitution aims to institute democratic norms and limits on presidential power as part of a broader strategy to modernize governance while the military transitional leadership prepares to return power to civilian hands by 2025.
The referendum in Gabon represents a critical juncture in the country’s efforts to transition to democratic governance following the military coup. With proposed constitutional reforms designed to limit presidential tenure and eradicate dynastic succession, the outcome of the vote could have significant and far-reaching implications for the political future of Gabon. However, concerns remain regarding the legitimacy of the transitional leadership and whether the reforms will address the systemic issues that have plagued the nation for decades.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
