Around eight hundred and sixty thousand (860,000) voters were called to the polls on Saturday, as part of the constitutional referendum, the third in the political and electoral history of the country, with a view to the adoption of the future constitution of the Gabonese republic. The supporters of ”Yes” and ”No” who campaigned for ten (10) days and participated in contradictory debates on the public service media in particular, are awaiting the official results, which should be announced in the next few hours by the Minister of the Interior and Security, now the only body responsible for organizing political elections in the Gabonese Republic.
According to official observations and trends published by the Ministry of the Interior, in the hours following the closure of almost all polling centers and stations (both inside the country and in consular electoral commissions , outside the country), the timid participation at the opening of the polling stations (generally on time everywhere, that is to say at 7 a.m.), gradually gave way to “strengthening attendance, reaching a participation rate of 71%”at the end of the electoral operations, it is indicated.
In certain polling stations outside the country, notably in China (specifically in Beijing, Shanghai and Wuhan), as well as in a dozen other polling stations inside the country (Medzeng, Malinga, Ekouma, Assiami , Oyou, Okoumbi, Okangoville, Alélé, Omoï, Eyouga, Ondili and Ankoussa, etc.), the participation rate would even be close to 100%, inform the organizers.
And if we are to believe the very partial results published by the Ministry of the Interior“Yes would be well ahead”while waiting to be definitively determined at the end of the counting and counting operations which are still continuing almost everywhere.
As of close of business on Saturday evening, no major incidents had been reported. Some voters still had difficulty finding their polling stations, due to the late consultation of the electoral lists, nevertheless notes the Ministry of the Interior. Other voters, without voter cards, were able to vote with the other required documents (passport or national identity card), it is specified.
Thirty observation missions have been accredited, deploying more than six hundred (600) observers throughout the national territory. The organizations present are: the African Union, the European Union, ECCAS, the Commonwealth, the United Kingdom, Canada and the United States; as well as various local missions, we learn.
The future Gabonese constitution will replace that of 1991, modified five (5) times, in 1994, in 1995, in 1997, in 2000 and finally in 2023 by law 13/2023 of August 19, 2023, under the reins of Bongo, father and son.
Alph’–Willem Eslie
2024-11-17 11:53:00
#Assumptions #waiting #results
What factors contributed to the high voter turnout in the Gabonese constitutional referendum?
**Interview with Political Analyst Dr. Marie-Agnès Ngongué on the Gabonese Constitutional Referendum Results**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Ngongué. The recent constitutional referendum in Gabon saw around 860,000 voters turning out to decide on the adoption of a new constitution. What are your initial thoughts on the voter turnout and engagement?
**Dr. Ngongué:** Thank you for having me. It’s encouraging to see a final participation rate of 71%, especially after a slow start on election day. This indicates a significant level of engagement from the electorate. It’s also important to note that the high turnout in certain polling places, both domestically and abroad, suggests that many Gabonese are eager to shape the future of their country’s governance.
**Editor:** The campaigns for ‘Yes’ and ‘No’ were quite intense, lasting ten days and featuring several public debates. Do you think these efforts influenced voter turnout?
**Dr. Ngongué:** Absolutely. The ten-day campaign period allowed voters to engage deeply with the issues at stake. The public debates provided a platform for the expression of diverse opinions, which likely encouraged more people to participate in the vote. A more informed electorate can lead to greater turnout during elections.
**Editor:** According to early reports from the Ministry of the Interior, preliminary results show that ‘Yes’ is ahead. How do you interpret this trend?
**Dr. Ngongué:** While we need to wait for the official results, the early indications of ‘Yes’ leading might reflect a desire for change within Gabon. Many citizens are looking for a more effective governance framework that a new constitution might bring. However, we must also consider the significance of the ‘No’ votes; they reflect valid concerns and the need for dialogue as well.
**Editor:** What implications do you foresee from this referendum, regardless of the final outcome?
**Dr. Ngongué:** This referendum is crucial for Gabon, regardless of whether the ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ side ultimately prevails. It represents a pivotal moment in the transition process and could set the stage for future political stability or unrest. The government must be prepared to address the concerns of those who voted ‘No’ to ensure that national unity is maintained.
**Editor:** Lastly, the official results are expected to be announced shortly. How should citizens prepare for whatever outcome emerges from the counting?
**Dr. Ngongué:** Citizens should remain informed and engaged, regardless of the outcome. It is essential for Gabonese people to continue advocating for their interests and holding their leaders accountable. Open dialogue and community discussions should be encouraged to foster understanding and cooperation in moving forward, regardless of the referendum’s final decision.
**Editor:** Thank you very much for your insights, Dr. Ngongué. We appreciate your perspective on this significant event in Gabon’s political history.
**Dr. Ngongué:** Thank you for having me. It’s essential to keep the conversation going as we navigate this important moment.
