State media has been emphasizing the importance of civic duty, encouraging all citizens aged 18 and older to vote. The referendum, according to Gabon’s transitional military government, is a crucial step in transitioning back to civilian rule, following recommendations from the national dialogue held in April. This month-long conference was intended to map out a path toward restoring democratic governance after the military ousted President Ali Bongo in August 2023. The coup, which ended the Bongo family’s 55-year rule, was presented as a necessary move to address the country’s political and economic instability.
One of the key proposals of the new constitution is the establishment of August 30 as a Day of National Liberation, commemorating the coup. The charter also seeks to limit presidents to two seven-year terms, a provision aimed at preventing a repeat of the long rule under the Bongo family. However, the removal of the prime minister’s office and the creation of a vice president post have been criticized for concentrating too much power in the presidency.
Criticism from opposition parties and civil society groups is mounting. Many argue that Nguema’s inclusion as a potential candidate for the presidency contradicts his promise to restore civilian rule. Thierry Essame, a member of Gabon’s Civil Society Movement, warned that the constitution would give the president excessive powers, including appointing judges and dissolving parliament, undermining the separation of powers essential to a functioning democracy. Essame’s concerns reflect a broader apprehension that the new system could entrench Nguema’s grip on power rather than facilitate a genuine democratic transition.
The opposition is also voicing concerns about the rapidity of the process. Ondobo Emmanuel, a history student at Omar Bongo University, noted that many Gabonese lack access to information and the necessary education to make informed decisions about the referendum. The government’s decision to distribute the draft constitution primarily through social media has been criticized, given that about 30% of Gabon’s population does not have internet access. Critics argue that the public needs more time to fully understand the implications of the proposed changes.
Jean Delors Biyogue, a member of the Constitutional Committee, defended the document, emphasizing that it introduces term limits and aims to prevent long-term authoritarian rule, like that of Ali Bongo’s father, Omar Bongo, who governed for 42 years. Biyogue argued that barring military leaders, including Nguema, from running for president would be undemocratic. He insists that the new constitution would enable a system of alternating power, which he claims is essential for Gabon’s future stability.
Despite the assurances from government officials, the opposition remains unconvinced, with many viewing the referendum as a strategic move by Nguema to cement his rule. The proposal’s focus on strengthening the presidency, coupled with the military’s dominant role in the transitional government, has fueled fears that Nguema may be positioning himself for a prolonged stay in power.
As official campaigning for the referendum begins on November 6, the outcome will likely shape the country’s political future. Whether the new constitution will genuinely restore democracy or merely consolidate Nguema’s influence is a question that remains deeply contested within Gabonese society. For now, the nation stands at a critical juncture, facing the challenge of balancing the aspirations for democratic reform with the realities of military rule.
