Gabonese leader General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema has celebrated the overwhelming approval of a new constitution, which he described as a decisive break from past practices. The referendum, held on November 16, saw 91.64% of voters endorsing the changes, with a turnout of 54.18%, according to final results announced by the Constitutional Court.
In a televised address, General Nguema praised the political maturity of the Gabonese people and highlighted the new constitution as a product of “deep national reflection,” tailored to the nation’s needs. He described it as a “purely Gabonese constitutional model” that embodies collective aspirations and marks a turning point in the country’s governance.
“Today, there is neither winner nor loser. The only winner is immortal Gabon,” he declared, urging unity and harmony to ensure the successful implementation of the reforms.
The new constitution introduces significant changes, including a seven-year presidential term renewable only once, the elimination of the prime minister’s role, and a ban on dynastic power transfers. It also enshrines irreversible provisions such as term limits, direct universal suffrage, and a prohibition on same-sex marriage.
The referendum results also grant amnesty to those involved in the events surrounding the government’s rise to power in August 2023, which ousted President Ali Bongo Ondimba.
Looking ahead, General Nguema reiterated his commitment to a civilian-led government, with free and transparent elections scheduled for August 2025. The reforms also include revisions to the Electoral Code as part of the ongoing transition.
Calling for national unity, Nguema emphasized the need to move forward collectively, promising a brighter future for Gabon, a nation rich in resources but burdened with debt.