Gabonese voters have overwhelmingly endorsed a constitutional referendum extending the presidential term from five to seven years, marking a significant step toward restoring civilian governance after last year’s military coup.
According to Interior Minister Hermann Immongault, the proposed changes received strong support, with 92% of voters backing the new constitution. The referendum saw a voter turnout of 54%, as reported by Gabon24, a Libreville-based television station.
The amended constitution introduces several key reforms, including the replacement of the prime minister’s position with a vice-president and a seven-year presidential term, renewable once. It also sets eligibility criteria for presidential candidates, who must be under 70 years old and have parents of Gabonese nationality.
Willy Giscard Ontsia, chief of staff at the Ministry of Justice, stated that the changes are critical to establishing a timeline for the country’s return to constitutional order. “Once adopted, the new constitution should pave the way for the electoral process to continue, leading to a return to constitutional order. Elections are expected to take place in August 2025, though this timeline may be adjusted if necessary,” he said.
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The referendum also clears the path for military leader Brice Oligui Nguema to participate in the upcoming elections. Nguema, 49, took power in August 2023 after deposing former President Ali Bongo in a coup that ended the Bongo family’s 55-year rule.
Ali Bongo, who had governed since 2009 after succeeding his father Omar Bongo, was ousted just hours after being declared the winner of a controversial election. The coup was widely seen as a response to long-standing dissatisfaction with the Bongo dynasty and allegations of electoral malpractice.
Observers view the referendum as a turning point in Gabon’s political landscape, with hopes that the new constitution will lay the groundwork for a transparent electoral process and stable civilian leadership. However, questions remain about the military’s role in the transition and its commitment to fully relinquish power.
As Gabon moves toward its next presidential election in 2025, the nation will be closely watched to see whether these reforms lead to meaningful democratic progress or serve as a framework for military-backed leadership.