Noting some inadequacies contained in the new constitution which will be submitted to the referendum on November 16, the Democratic and Republican Union (UDERE), however, at the end of its 2th national council held this Saturday in Essassa in the 2nd district of the commune of Ntoum (23 km from Libreville), said yes to this fundamental law.
“While making these useful questions, and due to a reality, that of knowing that no text in the world can take on the completed character, the national council of the UDERE, after analysis adopts the draft of the new constitution and undertakes to support it to bring our country back into constitutional balance in order to ensure the proper functioning of the State, subject to the decision of the plenary assembly of presidents of the vision 2025 coalition”, declared Victor Missanda, president of UDERE.
Without detour, the leader of this political group did not fail to call on his activists who came in large numbers to this political mass, to vote for “yes” in the referendum scheduled for November 16, 2024.
Concerning one of the inadequacies noted in the final version of the constitution: the appointment of members of the constitutional court by the executive as well as its presence within the Superior Council of the Judiciary (CSM).
For UDERE, “this is seen as a step backwards from the point of view of democracy and seems to us to carry a possible weakening of the notion of the separation of powers between the Executive, the Legislative and the Judiciary”.
In the motions of support, UDERE activists paid vibrant tribute to the President of the Transition, General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema at the head of the CTRI, for having liberated the country from the predators of the Republic on August 30, 2023 by a bloodless coup d’état, also called: “liberation coup”.
Camille Boussoughou
2024-11-03 12:38:00
#shortcomings #UDERE #constitution
**Interview on Gabon’s Upcoming Constitutional Referendum**
**Host:** Welcome back to our program. Today, we’re diving into the recent announcement about Gabon’s impending referendum on a new constitution, scheduled for November 16. Joining us is Dr. Amina Koumba, a political analyst specializing in Central African governance. Thank you for being here, Dr. Koumba.
**Dr. Koumba:** Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
**Host:** The Democratic and Republican Union (UDERE) recently held its national council, expressing both support and reservations regarding the new constitution. What are your thoughts on their stance?
**Dr. Koumba:** Absolutely. It’s noteworthy that while UDERE has acknowledged some inadequacies in the draft constitution, they ultimately decided to support it. This dual approach indicates a desire to foster stability in the political climate of Gabon. They recognize that while the constitution is not perfect, it offers a step toward restoring constitutional order after a tumultuous period.
**Host:** You mentioned stability. Why is it particularly important for Gabon at this time?
**Dr. Koumba:** Gabon is currently navigating the aftermath of military rule. The transition back to a civil government hinges on public trust in the constitutional framework. Supporting this new constitution can be seen as a unifying move, attempting to bring various factions together. It may also signal to the international community that Gabon is committed to returning to democratic norms.
**Host:** What specific inadequacies do you think have been highlighted, and how might they impact voter sentiment ahead of the referendum?
**Dr. Koumba:** The primary concerns likely revolve around the military leader’s potential to run for president under the new constitution. Voters may have mixed feelings, balancing the desire for constitutional order against the fear of the military exerting too much influence. Such inadequacies could lead to skepticism and could mobilize dissent, especially if citizens feel that their democratic rights are being compromised.
**Host:** That’s an interesting point. Given these mixed reactions from notable political groups, how do you anticipate the outcome of the referendum?
**Dr. Koumba:** It’s challenging to predict the outcome, as it depends heavily on how effective the campaign is in educating voters about the constitution. If supporters can frame it as a necessary step towards stability and progress, it might resonate well. However, if opposition voices emphasizing inadequate provisions gain traction, we could see a more divided electorate.
**Host:** Lastly, what does this referendum signify for Gabon’s future, regardless of the results?
**Dr. Koumba:** Irrespective of the referendum’s outcome, it represents a crucial moment in Gabon’s political trajectory. It’s a chance for the citizens to voice their views on governance and to reinforce the role of civil society in shaping their country’s future. The referendum could either affirm the military’s position in power or catalyze further demands for democratic reforms.
**Host:** Thank you, Dr. Koumba, for sharing your insights on this critical issue in Gabon. We will continue to monitor the developments leading up to the referendum.
**Dr. Koumba:** Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure.