Gabon Votes Overwhelmingly in Favour of New Constitution After Military Coup

Gabonese citizens have decisively backed a new constitution, as announced by officials on Sunday. This development comes over a year after military forces ousted the nation's long-serving leader. The Interior Minister, Hermann Immongault, revealed that over 91% of voters supported the new constitution in Saturday's referendum. Voter turnout was approximately 53.5%, and final results will be confirmed by the Constitutional Court.

The proposed constitution introduces significant reforms aimed at preventing dynastic rule and ensuring a smooth transfer of power. It required more than half of the votes to be adopted. In 2023, soldiers removed President Ali Bongo Ondimba from office, citing mismanagement and corruption that threatened national stability. Ondimba was later released for medical treatment abroad.

Political Transition and New Leadership

Following the coup, General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, who is related to Bongo, was appointed as the head of a transitional committee. Oligui's leadership marks a shift in Gabon's political landscape. Bongo had been in power since 2009 after succeeding his father, who governed for 41 years. His tenure faced significant public dissatisfaction and a failed coup attempt in 2019.

The new constitution proposes a seven-year presidential term, renewable only once, replacing the current system of unlimited five-year terms. It also prohibits family members from succeeding a president and eliminates the prime minister's role. These changes aim to foster political stability and prevent concentrated power within families.

Economic Context and Challenges

Despite being an OPEC member with substantial oil resources, Gabon's wealth is unevenly distributed. In 2020, nearly 40% of young Gabonese aged 15 to 24 were unemployed, according to the World Bank. The country's oil export revenue reached USD 6 billion in 2022, as reported by the US Energy Information Administration.

This constitutional reform is seen as a step towards addressing governance issues and promoting equitable economic growth. The changes reflect Gabon's efforts to move away from its past political practices and create a more inclusive future for its citizens.