By : Lloyd Mahachi

Gabon has made a big move towards becoming a democracy. Most of its citizens voted for a new constitution, with 92% saying yes. This is a crucial step towards transitioning from military rule to civilian rule. The country’s electoral body released the provisional results.

The new constitution is important because it sets the stage for elections in 2025. This will happen after a national dialogue in April 2024. Gabon’s military leaders were under pressure from other countries to make a plan for transitioning to democracy. Now, they have taken a big step forward.

General Brice Oligui Nguema, Gabon’s military leader, is happy about the referendum results. He says it’s a crucial step towards civilian rule. However, he hasn’t said if he will run in the upcoming elections. The new constitution has some key changes. The president can only serve for seven years, and can only be re-elected once. Also, family members of the president cannot run for the top job.

Gabon is a rich country with oil and forests, but many people are poor. About one-third of its 2.4 million citizens live below the poverty line. The country has been ruled by one family for decades – President Ali Bongo Odimba and his father. Now, Gabon is trying to change.

The international community is watching Gabon closely. They want to ensure a smooth transition to democracy. The upcoming elections will be a big test for Gabon. Will they succeed in becoming a democratic country? Only time will tell.

The new constitution also removes the prime minister’s position and introduces two vice-presidential roles. Some people think this could give too much power to the president. Others see it as a positive change. Gabon’s people are hopeful for a brighter future.

As Gabon moves forward, its citizens are eager for change. They want better living conditions, education, and healthcare. The country has a lot of potential, and the new constitution is a step in the right direction.

Editor : Josephine Mahachi