Gabon Announces New Constitution Approval by 91.8%

Gabonese voters have overwhelmingly approved a new constitution proposed by the military government, with provisional results showing 91.8% in favor and a turnout of approximately 53.5%. The new constitution introduces significant changes, including a limit of two seven-year presidential terms, the elimination of the prime minister role, and a prohibition on dynastic succession. Notably, it requires presidential candidates to be exclusively Gabonese, disqualifying former President Ali Bongo Ondimba and his children. The military junta, which seized power in August 2023, has framed this referendum as a step towards a democratic transition, with plans for a civilian government transfer by summer 2025. Despite the overwhelming support, the election campaign faced criticism for being dominated by official propaganda from the ruling junta. The final validation of the results will be conducted by Gabon's Constitutional Court.