Libreville, Gabon — Gabon’s military rulers have announced the approval of a new constitution in a national referendum, with provisional results showing an overwhelming 91.8% of voters backing the measure. The vote, seen as a pivotal moment in the country’s political future, follows the military coup of August 2023 that ousted President Ali Bongo Ondimba.

Key Features of the New Constitution

The new constitution introduces significant changes aimed at reshaping Gabon’s governance framework:

• Presidential Limits: A maximum of two seven-year terms for the presidency.
• Prime Minister Role Abolished: Centralizes executive authority.
• Eligibility Criteria: Presidential candidates must have at least one Gabon-born parent and a Gabonese spouse, effectively barring ousted President Ali Bongo, whose wife is French.

The reforms are intended to prevent dynastic transfers of power, a direct response to the nearly five decades of rule by the Bongo family.

Turnout and Public Participation

The country’s estimated 860,000 registered voters faced a high-profile campaign urging them to participate. Official figures from the Ministry of Interior reported a 53.54% voter turnout, lower than the 71% initially broadcasted by state-run Gabon TV. The referendum was conducted peacefully, with 2,835 polling stations across the country reporting no major incidents.

Supporters and Skeptics React

Transitional President Brice Oligui Nguema, who led the military coup, cast his vote in Libreville, calling the referendum a “great step forward.” Having shed his military uniform for civilian attire, Nguema described the process as transparent, expressing confidence in its integrity.

Many voters echoed optimism about the junta’s leadership. “I believe in this government and voted ‘yes,’” said Nathalie Badzoko, a 33-year-old civil servant.

However, critics have raised concerns about the motives behind the reforms. Prominent lawyer Marlene Fabienne Essola Efountame described the changes as self-serving, warning, “We are creating a dictator who designs the constitution for himself.”

Billboards and media campaigns featuring Nguema prompted some to question whether the referendum doubled as an unofficial presidential campaign ahead of the 2025 elections, where he is expected to be a leading candidate.

Public Sentiment and Future Outlook

A recent Afrobarometer survey found 87% of respondents believe Gabon is heading in the right direction, with unemployment, healthcare, and infrastructure topping public concerns. Meanwhile, 46% of respondents expressed strong confidence in Nguema’s leadership.

The junta has pledged to hand power back to civilians through elections in August 2025, although skepticism remains about its long-term commitment to democratic governance.

The final results of the referendum will be confirmed by Gabon’s constitutional court, formally enshrining these sweeping changes. Whether the reforms will usher in a new era of governance or reinforce existing power structures remains to be seen.