Gabon Holds Constitutional Referendum Post-Coup as a Pivotal Moment

Gabon held a referendum on a new constitution following a military coup that overthrew the Bongo family. The ruling junta describes the vote as a turning point, urging registered voters to actively participate. Polling stations are open until 6:00 PM, with significant attention on voter turnout as the transitional government seeks legitimacy in the wake of historic political changes.

On Saturday, Gabon conducted a pivotal referendum on a proposed new constitution, which the ruling junta has described as a significant turning point for the nation. This vote follows a military coup that displaced the Bongo family—a dynasty that had controlled Gabon for 55 years. The ruling authorities have actively encouraged the 860,000 registered voters to participate, framing the referendum as a crucial moment to shape the country’s future. Dominated by government propaganda, expectations for voter turnout are high as polling stations remain open until 6:00 PM. Transitional President General Brice Oligui Nguema emphasized the importance of this referendum, stating, “We have a date with history,” while promoting civic engagement through various media outlets.

Gabon has experienced a significant political transition following a military coup that removed the Bongo family, which had governed since 1967. The current junta is now seeking to legitimize its authority through a constitutional referendum that aims to reshape governance in the oil-rich nation. The referendum comes amidst a backdrop of extensive media campaigns urging public participation, underscoring the junta’s efforts to establish a new political order.

The referendum marks a crucial juncture in Gabon’s history, offering citizens an opportunity to endorse or reject a new constitutional framework following decades of Bongo rule. With active mobilization by the ruling junta and public calls for participation, the outcome will likely have lasting implications for the country’s governance and political stability.

Original Source: www.scmp.com