A new constitution proposed by Gabon’s ruling junta includes provisions for a national holiday to commemorate the downfall of the Bongo dynasty, according to media reports on Tuesday.
The transitional government published the draft constitution on Monday, following its approval by the Council of Ministers last week. A referendum on the new constitution is scheduled for November 16.
The draft establishes a national liberation day to celebrate the end of 55 years of Bongo family rule, marked by the military junta’s takeover on August 30 last year, shortly after the controversial election of Ali Bongo Ondimba for a third term.
In addition to the holiday, the proposed constitution suggests abolishing the post of prime minister and imposing a seven-year presidential term, which may be renewed once.
General Brice Oligui Nguema, who led the military coup, has promised a return to civilian governance and has indicated his intention to run in the upcoming presidential election slated for August 2025.
“The proposed constitution, the fruit of your contributions during national consultations, is now available. I invite you to examine it carefully, to fully understand its stakes and to think with complete peace of mind,” the transitional president stated on X.
Key amendments in the draft include limiting presidential mandates to two consecutive terms, direct universal suffrage for elections, and defining marriage as a union between a man and a woman. Furthermore, candidates for the presidency must have at least one Gabonese-born parent, hold no other nationality, and be married to a Gabonese national.