In a communication made public at the Imperial Hotel, located in the Sainte Montagne district in 3th district of Libreville, the Radical Party of Independent Republicans (PARI) revealed its position in favor of ”Yes” for the draft fundamental law text submitted to the referendum this Saturday, November 16, 2024.
Taking a position on the subject, the Radical Party of Independent Republicans, through the voice of the founding member, Mesmin Noël Soumaho, announced that the PARI will vote « Oui » in the referendum; while admitting that this draft constitutional text is not perfect and will ultimately require adjustments.
According to PARI, the concept of Nation is essential and it is necessary to restore the national unity of Gabon, weakened by years of regionalism and ethnic divisions. Although the draft constitution still has imperfections, the bet nevertheless calls on the Gabonese not to abstain and to vote massively.
“Rather than simply deciding “Yes” or “No”, the challenge consists, according to PARI, of objectively questioning the stakes of the referendum in terms of “gains” and “losses” in order to make their decision. in all conscience and with all responsibility in a socio-historical context loaded with symbols and hope”called out Mesmin Noël Soumaho.
The president of PARI, Mathurin Mengue Bibang, justifying the party’s position and analyzing the contours and provisions of the draft new constitution submitted to the vote, did not fail to emphasize that the vote of this November 16 is part of a political context tense, marked by lively debates around the referendum process.
The President of PARI stressed that the future Constitution, resulting from a long development process, includes both progress and points of tension. Among the positive elements, he notably noted a better distribution of powers between the executive and the legislature, as well as the consecration of the independence of the judiciary. The PARI leader also identified certain provisions which raise questions and debates, such as the eligibility criteria for the presidency of the republic, the composition of the Constitutional Court or the prerogatives granted to the Head of State.
Mathurin Mengue Bibang believes that the disputed provisions should be the subject of discussions and adjustments after the referendum to arrive at a more consensual text.
Despite these points of tension, the president of PARI reiterated the party’s position in favor of « Oui », while calling for a calm and constructive debate on the issues at stake in this decisive election for the future of Gabon.
Alph’–Willem Eslie and Tryphene Lembah
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