Gabon will hold a referendum on November 16 to decide on a proposed new constitution, marking a key step towards the restoration of civilian government, as promised by the military junta after the recent coup. The transitional government announced the final draft of the constitution on October 21.
A national dialogue involving citizens and civil society organizations will be held to allow the public to suggest reforms for the new constitution. Key features of the draft include the elimination of the Prime Minister position, a seven-year presidential term renewable once, and a requirement that only individuals born to Gabonese parents can run for president. French will remain the official language, and a proposal for mandatory military service may also be considered.
The new constitution aims to protect individual liberties and ensure a balance of power to strengthen democracy. Following the dialogue, the November 16 referendum will offer the public the opportunity to approve the draft, marking a significant step toward civilian governance and fulfilling the recommendations from the national dialogue.
This referendum follows the August 2023 coup, which ousted President Ali Bongo Ondimba after a contested election. The transitional government, led by the Committee for the Transition and Restoration of Institutions (CTRI), dismantled existing institutions and formed a transitional parliament with members from both the opposition and the previous regime.
The proposed constitution presents Gabon with a chance to reshape its political landscape after years of Bongo family rule and political instability.