By: Lloyd Mahachi

Gabon held a constitutional referendum on November 16, 2024, where citizens voted for a new constitution. This referendum is a crucial step towards the country’s transition to democratic rule after the 2023 military coup. The new constitution proposes several key changes, including a seven-year presidential term that can only be renewed once.

The draft constitution also abolishes the office of prime minister, replacing it with a “Vice President of the Government” appointed by the president. Additionally, the constitution defines marriage as a union between a man and a woman and introduces mandatory military service. The national holiday of August 17 will be complemented by a “Liberation Day” on August 30 to commemorate the 2023 coup.

The referendum was conducted with international observers, a first for Gabon, and utilized color-coded ballot papers to indicate “yes” or “no” votes. Approximately 2,835 polling stations were set up, and voting took place from 07:00 to 18:00. The outcome of the referendum will determine the fate of Gabon’s new constitution, which will come into force following the next presidential election if approved.

The country’s transitional president, Brice Oligui Nguema, expressed satisfaction with the voting process, highlighting the transparency and inclusiveness of the referendum. If the referendum passes, presidential polls are scheduled to take place in August 2025. This milestone marks a significant step towards Gabon’s transition to democratic rule, offering citizens a renewed sense of hope and possibility for the country’s future.

The international community watches with interest as Gabon navigates this critical juncture. The success of the referendum paves the way for a smoother transition, ensuring stability and prosperity for the Gabonese people. As the nation awaits the official results, anticipation builds for the next chapter in Gabon’s history.

Editor: Josephine Mahachi