In a speech to the nation on the eve of the opening of the electoral campaign relating to the constitutional referendum on November 16, the President of the Transition, General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, called on Tuesday evening for the Gabonese to go massively to the polls to make their choice which will be decisive for the history of the country.
Here is the full text:
Gabonese, Gabonese, My dear compatriots,
At this solemn moment in our history, I
I address you with the deep conviction that our common destiny transcends our differences. As Nelson Mandela wisely said: “To be free is not just to cast off one’s chains, it is to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others. »
Our country, Gabon, land of our ancestors, cradle of our hopes, is today at a crossroads. The transition we are experiencing is not that of one camp against another, but that of an entire people united in its diversity, rich in its differences.
When we came to power, we made a commitment through the
timeline of the Transition to restore institutions, organize an inclusive national dialogue, propose for adoption a new Constitution which would emanate from the aspirations and expectations of the Gabonese people, and finally to organize free and transparent elections where the results from the ballot boxes will be respected.
To date, the different stages contained in the timetable have been respected. We recorded 38,000 contributions from Gabonese people, then we organized the national dialogue in harmony and fraternity to put these contributions into shape. At the end of this stage, we followed a process which led us to the establishment of a Constituent Assembly then to the proposal of the draft of the new Constitution.
The debates at each phase of development were rich and at times heated, although
fortunately, the best interests of the nation have always prevailed.
Gabonese people, my dear compatriots,
In the days to come, we will be called upon to decide on a new Fundamental Law. But beyond the text, it is our ability to dialogue, to listen to each other and to respect each other that is at stake.
Peace, my dear compatriots, is not the simple absence of conflict. It is, as history teaches us, the fruit of daily work, of a common desire to preserve what unites us rather than what divides us. It is the creation of an environment where all Gabonese people can flourish.
This new Constitution, in my opinion, is based on essential pillars:
- The guarantee of fundamental freedoms;
- Protection of minorities;
- Respect for political pluralism;
- Equity between all provinces;
- The preservation of our traditions and our cultural diversity;
- Dialogue as a method of conflict resolution;
- Social justice and equal opportunities;
- Strict limitation of presidential terms;
- The effective independence of justice;
- Transparency in the management of public resources;
- Strengthening counter-powers;
- And the effective decentralization of power where the President of the Republic will be your servant.
I particularly insist on the fact that every opinion counts, every voice deserves to be heard. Whether you are for or against this project, your point of view enriches the national debate. Inform yourself, debate, participate in public discussions on this constitutional project.
I therefore call on you to participate massively in this referendum. Your voice is decisive, your choice will determine the future of our children.
Gabon is our common home. Our ethnic, political or social differences are not obstacles, but an asset. Our diversity is our strength, our unity will be our victory.
I am personally committed, with the CTRI, to guaranteeing the Gabonese people that this referendum takes place in peace, transparency and mutual respect. The Defense and Security Forces have received clear and firm instructions to protect all citizens, regardless of their position.
To the young people of our country: you are the guardians of this peace that we are building. From the elders, I ask for their wisdom to guide the steps of all. To Gabonese women, pillars of our families and our society, I reaffirm our commitment to more active participation in governance.
The campaign that is opening must be a moment of constructive exchanges, not of division. Each province, each village, each neighborhood must be a space for dialogue where Gabonese brotherhood is expressed and living together.
Gabonese, Gabonese,
The future of our nation is in your hands. Whatever your choice during this referendum, do so with the awareness that we are all children of the same nation, heirs of the same history and architects of the same future. Let the mistakes of the past not be repeated.
It is finally our rise towards happiness,
May the Almighty Lord and the spirits of our ancestors bless Gabon.
May God protect our people. Long live the Republic!
Thank you.
Gabonactu.com
2024-11-05 23:29:00
#Oligui #NGuema #calls #Gabonese #people #polls #masse #choice
**Interview with Political Analyst Dr. Alain Ndong on the Upcoming Constitutional Referendum in Gabon**
**Interviewer:** Good afternoon, Dr. Ndong. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the imminent constitutional referendum in Gabon. The transition government has called for a vote on a new constitution on November 16. Could you share your thoughts on the significance of this referendum?
**Dr. Ndong:** Good afternoon, and thank you for having me. The upcoming referendum is a pivotal moment for Gabon. It represents an opportunity for the Gabonese people to shape their political future following a period of considerable upheaval. General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema’s push for a new constitution symbolizes a departure from the past, and it aims to establish new norms and safeguard the aspirations of the people.
**Interviewer:** General Nguema has highlighted the importance of participation in this referendum. He emphasized that every voice matters. Do you believe that the population is ready to engage in this democratic process?
**Dr. Ndong:** Yes, I believe many Gabonese citizens are eager to participate. The call for contributions resulting in 38,000 responses suggests a high level of engagement. However, the challenge will be ensuring that this enthusiasm translates into turnout on the voting day. Education about the proposed constitutional changes is vital to foster informed participation.
**Interviewer:** The proposed changes include abolishing the prime minister’s position and allowing General Nguema to run for president. How do you see these alterations impacting Gabon’s political landscape?
**Dr. Ndong:** The abolishment of the prime minister’s role centralizes power in the presidency, which raises several concerns, particularly about checks and balances. Allowing Nguema to run for president may lead to a continuation of military influence in politics. While it can create stability in the short term, it could also suppress political pluralism and hinder democratic development in the long run.
**Interviewer:** General Nguema referenced pillars such as fundamental freedoms and social justice in his address. How feasible do you think these ideals are under the new constitution?
**Dr. Ndong:** While the ideals mentioned are commendable and necessary for true democratic governance, their feasibility will largely depend on the sincerity of the political will and the implementation mechanisms established. Ensuring the independence of the judiciary and promoting equity across provinces are challenging tasks that require ongoing commitment beyond the passage of the constitution.
**Interviewer:** What do you think are the main risks surrounding this referendum and the proposed constitution?
**Dr. Ndong:** One significant risk is the potential for polarization among citizens. The narrative around the referendum could exacerbate existing divisions rather than promote unity. Furthermore, if the processes are perceived as lacking transparency or inclusivity, it could lead to civil unrest. Maintaining peace and public trust will be paramount.
**Interviewer:** what message would you send to the Gabonese people as they prepare for this referendum?
**Dr. Ndong:** I urge the Gabonese people to participate actively and thoughtfully in this referendum. It is a unique chance to voice your opinions and influence the trajectory of your country. Whether for or against the proposed constitution, engaging in this democratic process is vital for fostering a future that respects and embraces diverse perspectives. Your vote matters now more than ever.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Ndong, for your insights. We appreciate your time and expertise as Gabon navigates this critical juncture.
**Dr. Ndong:** Thank you for having me.
