Gabon Abolishes Prime Minister, Sets 70 Years as Age Limit for Presidential Candidates
Voters in Gabon, on Saturday, November 16, approved a new constitution introducing significant reforms to the country’s political structure in a referendum. The changes, aimed at restoring constitutional order following a 2023 coup, include abolishing the position of prime minister, limiting the age of presidential candidates to 70, and introducing a two-term limit for the presidency, with each term lasting seven years.
Interior Minister Hermann Immongault announced that 92% of voters supported the reforms, with a voter turnout of 54%. According to Willy Giscard Ontsia, Chief of Staff at the Ministry of Justice, the referendum marks “an important step toward the electoral process to continue, leading to a return to constitutional order.”
Key Changes in Gabon’s New Constitution
One of the most significant amendments is the elimination of the prime minister’s office, which will now be replaced by the position of vice president. This shift streamlines the executive branch and aligns Gabon’s governance structure with the ambitions of the transitional administration.
The new constitution also introduces stricter requirements for presidential candidates. Contenders must be no older than 70 years and must have both parents of Gabonese nationality.
Additionally, the presidential term has been extended to seven years, with the possibility of a single renewal. This change is designed to give future administrations more time to implement long-term policies while preventing individuals from remaining in power indefinitely.
Background: The Coup That Reshaped Gabon
Since Gabon’s independence in August 1960, the country has been ruled by the Bongo family.
The push for constitutional reforms comes in the wake of the August 2023 coup led by military chief Brice Oligui Nguema. The coup ousted former President Ali Bongo Ondimba hours after he was declared the winner of a controversial election. Bongo had ruled Gabon since 2009, succeeding his father, Omar Bongo, whose presidency began in 1967, marking 55 years of Bongo family rule.
Also Read: Why Gabon soldiers ended Ali Bongo’s 14-year rule four days after ‘re-election’
Nguema, 49, has positioned himself as a reformist leader intent on restoring stability and democracy. The referendum is seen as a step toward civilian rule, with presidential elections slated for August 2025. However, Ontsia noted that this timeline could be adjusted if deemed necessary.
A Nigerian living in the country, who wished to be identified only by her first name, Rejoice, told Neusroom that the referendum was largely peaceful.
“I’ll say it went well. Some are happy, while some are not, but those who are not happy don’t have a choice,” Rejoice said.
