On Saturday, Gabon held a referendum on a new constitution, and, according to preliminary results issued by the Gabonese Ministry of the Interior and Security, turnout in the referendum was 71%, with a clear majority voting in favor of a new constitution, both nationwide and abroad.
The new constitution requires more than 50% of the votes to pass. If adopted, it will set a presidential election to be scheduled for August 2025.
The draft constitution would introduce presidential term limits (two seven-year terms) and restrictions on candidates for the country's top job, as well as abolish the prime minister's position, officially recognize French as the working language and impose compulsory military service along with other points.
The voting for the new constitution follows a coup last year that ousted the Bongo dynasty. The interim president, General Brice Oligui Nguema, has framed the referendum as a step towards democratic rule and encouraged participation, reports said.
"This is something that I note, and it's positive. A huge step for the transition," media quoted Nguema as saying after casting his vote.